Correspondence School since 1922
A DigitalNZ Story by Zokoroa
Journey since 1 Feb 1922 when sole-charge teacher wrote lessons by hand and posted to students
Correspondence School, Te Kura, Schools, Education, Mail, Teachers, Radio, Broadcasts, Online learning, Courses
The New Zealand Correspondence School (NZCS) began operating on 1 February 1922 from Wellington by the Department of Education as a distance education postal service. Since 2009, NZCS has become known as 'Te Aho o Te Kura Pounamu' or 'Te Kura' and offers courses from early childhood to NCEA Level 3, mainly online.
The following revisits the journey since the first sole-charge teacher wrote lessons and letters by hand which were posted to over 100 primary-age students up to Standard 6 (Year 8) living in isolated rural areas, including lighthouses. Eventually, correspondence lessons also became available to secondary students living in rural locations, early childhood students, and children with physical disabilities. Initiatives over the decades included radio broadcasts, online lessons, school clubs and societies, and week-long and month-long residential courses. Adults also became eligible to enrol and included people working in the public service, residents of Pacific Island nations, new migrants and prison inmates. Correspondence resources were also provided when schools closed during the polio epidemic during 1948, after the Canterbury earthquake in 2011, and during COVID-19 disruptions in 2020/21.
On 1 Feb 1922, New Zealand Correspondence School (NZCS) began free lessons for primary-level students in remote areas
(Image: Pupil receives lessons by mail at Arapito near Karamea on the West Coast of the South Island, 1965)
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Sole-charge teacher, Miss Janet MacKenzie, drafted lessons & letters for over 100 students by hand
When roll increased, another teacher was appointed at the end of 1922 & a headmaster during 1923
Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage
Lessons were posted monthly for completion fortnightly & were returned by reply-paid post for marking
Image: Pupil Kathryn Stirling hangs up a mailbag containing completed lessons for collection from a farm in Mt Cook area
Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage
Parents were to be involved with the teaching of their child & were given a "Superviser's Booklet"
Image: A keeper’s wife supervises her daughter’s correspondence school lessons at the Cape Palliser lighthouse, 1958
Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage
Secondary students in remote areas were included from 1929 & Early Childhood (3-5 yrs) from 1976
As roll increased, so did number of staff. (Image: Tiritiri lighthouse keeper's children looking at homework, Oct 1972)
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
From July 1931-1997, NZCS broadcast sessions on the radio, & first course in te reo Māori held in 1949
Image: Student listening to radio. Includes link to audio of 1st Māori language lesson for 4th Form in 1956 (37 secs)
Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage
NZCS also began to include groups of adults. See 1956 film by NZ Film Unit (2 min).
Adults included people working in the public service, residents of Pacific Island nations, new migrants & prison inmates
Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage
1986: NZCS launched its computer system, & NZCS governance passed from Dept of Education to elected Board of Trustees
NZEI Te Riu Roa (New Zealand Educational Institute)
Over the decades, 'School Weeks' & month-long schools were held until 1990. Summer School currently supports NCEA study.
NZCS resources were also provided during polio epidemic (1948), Christchurch earthquake (2011) & COVID-19 (2021/2)
Auckland Libraries
In 2009, NZCS' name ‘The Correspondence School’ was changed to 'Te Aho o Te Kura Pounamu' (Te Kura)
Regional offices are in Christchurch (opened 2008), & Auckland & Hamilton (2009), & smaller offices in 7 locations
National Library of New Zealand
Backstory
The 1877 Education Act stated free, secular & compulsory education to be provided, but not all had access to schools
Parents campaigned for their children who lived in isolated areas, including backcountry farms & lighthouses
National Library of New Zealand
1920s
Trial of lessons by mail for primary-level children up to Standard 6 (Y8) in remote areas
In 1921, the Minister of Education announced a lessons by mail trial with primary school-aged children in remote areas
Initiative to be modelled on 'backblocks children' service provided from Melbourne to children in Victoria, Australia
National Library of New Zealand
In Aug 1921, the Education Board was directed to place adverts in local papers for parents to apply for information
Parents had to contact the Secretary of the Education Board for forms & details about the scheme which was free
National Library of New Zealand
Nov 1921: Education Dpt advertised for a certified teacher, preferably female, with country school experience
The position would be based in Wellington & the salary would range from £250–£270
National Library of New Zealand
On 1 Feb 1922, the successful applicant, Miss Janet McKenzie, began drafting lessons for up to Standard 6 (Y8)
Janet was born in Edinburgh on 3 July 1878 & lived in NZ since 1880. Her teaching career had begun in 1897.
Alexander Turnbull Library
On 28 Feb 1922, the Evening Post announced the appointment of "Miss J. C. Mackenzie" who'd begun preparing instructions
The instructions were for the chldren & parents who were to supervise their child's study
National Library of New Zealand
Working from an office on second-floor of the Government Buildings, Janet prepared 100 lessons & letters by hand
Initially, only 25 enrolments had been estimated. Janet also marked the lessons & kept a register of students' progress.
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
To assist Janet, an office assistant, office-boy & part-time typist started during 1922
Lessons were posted monthly & completed fortnightly. (Image: Government Buidlings cafeteria, Wellington)
Alexander Turnbull Library
Janet received the following grateful letter from a parent:
"Thank you very much for your kind interest in my girlie. I was beginning to despair of her ever doing anything with her lessons, as she never seemed to take the slightest interest in them. Then your letter came and did more than I ever could. The tears were very near the surface when she finished reading it… it is really wonderful how the correspondence scheme has taken on, and it certainly fills a long-felt want, as education has been the one great drawback in the backblocks.”
Source: Education Gazette (14 Oct 2021), "Warm, rich memories from long history of Te Kura" (Vol 100, No. 13)
On 1 Sept 1922, Min. of Education reported 209 had enrolled & that Post Office to put up notices to promote the scheme
The scheme had also uncovered that some 12 & 13 year olds were unable to read or write
National Library of New Zealand
Minister of Education proposed a 2nd teacher to aid an "overworked" Janet, & Ruth Lynn was appointed at end of 1922
By Dec 1922, 347 students had enrolled. Janet & Lyn would work into the evenings & on Saturdays to draft & mark lessons.
National Library of New Zealand
In 1923, 2 temporary teachers, a cadet, & then a Headmaster (Stanley Mills) were appointed
Stanley (appointed Aug) began teaching 20 years earlier at age 18 & had been headmaster in Rarotonga & Onga Onga School
National Library of New Zealand
During 1923, NZCS shifted to 156 The Terrace for 7 years. It shared the house with the Geological Survey Dept.
When its staffing numbers grew, NZCS changed its location several times including shifting to Clifton Terrace in 1936
Alexander Turnbull Library
Janet's recollections thirty years later on the students' experiences during the first year the Correspondence Scheme operated:
“Plenty of difficulties you see, and too much that was dull, both for the pupils and for their mothers. But how they worked, those girls and boys and mothers! By the end of the first year, they had shown that children could learn, and could make satisfactory progress, through lessons by post.”
Source:Ibid
Janet became the 'first assistant' & wrote graded English textbooks for Standards 1-6 which were posted with lessons
The textbooks were used until the 1940s
Auckland Libraries
In March 1924, Minister of Education reported the correspondence course was highly successful & key was parents' support
During 1924, two temporary teachers & a cadet were also employed at the Correspondence School
National Library of New Zealand
12 Sept 1924: Minister reported Chief Inspector found in many cases students making better progress than school pupils
In some cases the children had passed the Sixth Standard & were now at high school
National Library of New Zealand
In March 1925, the roll was capped at 500 which was removed year later. Roll rose to 750 in 1927.
(In Aug 1925, the MP for Waipawa had asked for the capping to be raised from 500 following requests from parents)
National Library of New Zealand
28 April 1928: Evening Post described subjects taught, posting & marking system, & that exams were held in July & Nov
English (reading, recitation, writing, spelling, composition & grammar), drawing, maths, geography, & history & civics
National Library of New Zealand
Evening Post also stated that reading material included the 'School Journal' & that a library had opened recently
('School Journal' began to be published by the Dept of Education in 1907 with articles on history, geography & civics)
Thames Museum
From 1928-2004, 'The Postman' magazine brought students into contact with each other by submitting articles & letters
(When Headmaster at Onga Onga School, Mills had begun a school paper printed every 2 months by a local printer)
Thames Museum
Also introduced was the Correspondence School badge with the motto "Kimihia Te Matauranga" - "Seek Knowledge"
Flaming torch represented torch of learning & the pen and ink, the medium of instruction
Alexander Turnbull Library
Secondary school aged children included from 1929
By Jan 1929, twelve teachers were employed for the 720 students & plans were underway to cater for secondary level
Children gaining their Standard 6 certificates may carry straight on with a post-primary course, free of charge
National Library of New Zealand
In Feb 1929, the secondary division began, for which two teachers & 2 typists were employed
The Evening Post (11 April 1929) provides a description of the 1 - 4 year course options on offer
National Library of New Zealand
Initially, the secondary division was also at 156 The Terrace in a room used by geologists who were on fieldwork
When the geologists returned later in 1929, the secondary division moved to 168 The Terrace
Alexander Turnbull Library
1930s
Roll growth, staffing changes & introduction of further initiatives
Evening Post (27 Feb 1930) described the courses & that the roll also included "a few invalid boys and girls"
Three extra staff had been appointed for agriculture & bookkeeping (secondary) & weaving (primary level)
National Library of New Zealand
In June 1930, the Director of Education, Mr Theophilus Strong, reported that 150 secondary-level students had enrolled
When reaching Standard VI, "they were conveyed to a school for examination, and they stood well in their proficiency"
National Library of New Zealand
From Dec 1930 – Dec 1931, roll grew from 860 to 973 primary students & from 166 to 286 secondary students
By Dec 1931, staffing included: Headmaster, 14 primary, 10 secondary (all univ graduates), & 8 office assistants
National Library of New Zealand
In July 1931, Headmaster Mills gave first of a series of radio talks on Radio 2YA to Correspondence students
Broadcasting Co. had enabled Education Dept's "Broadcasts for schools" from 2-3pm on Tues & some slots used by Mills
National Library of New Zealand
In early 1930s, a two-way postal system was introduced where an address card was flipped over in a canvas envelope
Imge: Group of children studying on bank overlooking Ihumoana Island & Bethells Beach (No date)
Auckland War Memorial Museum Tāmaki Paenga Hira
In Dec 1931, Janet Mackenzie, aged 53 years, retired from NZCS & continued to live in Wellington
During 1938, she visited Scotland & became involved in war work; returned to Wellington in 1945, & died on 14 July 1962
Auckland Libraries
1934: Minister of Education's annual report gave a favourable report on the NZCS' study programme & student pass rates
Roll of almost 1700 students also included some urban students with physical disabilities unable to attend school
National Library of New Zealand
In March 1935, Dr Arthur Butchers became new Headmaster after Stanley Mills resigned to become a School Inspector
Butchers (b.1888) begun teaching in Australia in 1906; then in NZ from 1925; & joined Correspondence School in 1930
Alexander Turnbull Library
On 16 March 1935, Evening Post announced Butchers' appointment & that he'd been senior secondary assistant for 4 years
The article summarised Butcher's academic career & membership of organisations
National Library of New Zealand
9 July 1935: Evening Post summarises NZCS' annual report, including subjects taught & group activities
Groups: Girl Guides; Boy Scouts; and clubs & societies for philately, photography, meccano, native bird & plant life
National Library of New Zealand
During 1936, NZCS shifted to Clifton Terrace after occupying temporary premises since leaving The Terrace in 1930
Temporary locations had included 2 years at Fitzherbert St, & 3 years at the Teachers Training College in Kowhai Road
Alexander Turnbull Library
On 12 May 1936, an exhibition at NZCS was opened by Minister of Education Peter Fraser
National Library of New Zealand
The displays created by students were exhibited for a week
Image: Children admiring a doll's house included in the displays from Correspondence School students
National Library of New Zealand
When attending the exhibition, parents took the opportunity to form the Parents' Association
During 1936, an Ex-Pupils' Association and the Special Education Service were also formed
National Library of New Zealand
NZCS continued to broadcast lessons on the radio which ceased in 1997.
((Video: Children listening in 1960: 35 secs)
Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage
25 Aug 1937, the 2d annual exhibition at NZCS was opened by Governor-General, Lord Galway
The gathering included current and former pupils, parents & staff
National Library of New Zealand
In 1938, Butchers chaired an international research committee on correspondence education held in Canada
Findings included students able to set own pace; encouraged learner agency; & developed self-confidence & motivation
National Library of New Zealand
Butchers initiated a trial to send out teachers to visit students
Image: Excerpt (49 secs) from National Film Unit: "A letter to the teacher" (1957) where a teacher visits a family
Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage
Another initiative was "School weeks" which enabled students to visit a school & be integrated into the normal classes
Image: Pupils attend course held at New Plymouth Boys' High School, May 1939
Auckland Libraries
During "School weeks", students were usually billeted by the families of pupils at the school
Image: Two sisters who had travelled from Gisborne to attend the Correspondence School event at New Plymouth
Auckland Libraries
In Dec 1939, Assistant Director of Education, Dr Clarence Beeby, reported on overseas enquiries on Correspondence School
“Only a few weeks ago the department had an enquiry from Finland [for] refugee children from Spain"
National Library of New Zealand
14 Dec 1939: NZCS teachers held an end of year break-up ceremony at the Town Hall
National Library of New Zealand
1940s
Expansion in range of children & adults receiving lessons by correspondence
10 Dec 1940: NZCS teachers held an end of year break-up ceremony which was broadcast to students
Students also included children with physical disabilities & groups of adults, including inmates in prison & hospital
National Library of New Zealand
At the end of year break-up ceremony for Correspondence School staff held in December 1940, Headmaster Dr Arthur Butchers described the number and categories of students receiving lessons which was reported by the Evening Post (10 Dec 1940):
"At the end of the second term this year the enrolment in the primary department was 1780 and in the secondary department 1251, giving an aggregate roll of 3031. Dr. Butchers reviewed various aspects of the school's activities, referring to improvements that had been made and to the necessity of reorganising the secondary department because of its development. The number of pupils enrolled on the ground of physical disability was 317; the number of part-time students was 553 (as against 347 for last year); and the number of part-time adult students was 495 (as against 302 last year). Other groups comprised 202 junior officers of the Post and Telegraph Department, and 58 teachers of grade I and Native schools. Smaller groups included 8 inmates of prisons and 18 inmates of hospitals. The new service to other post-primary schools continued to develop, courses during the past year having been provided for pupils in 16 of these schools. "
Film (1940) "The Royal Mail" looks at the New Zealand Postal Service, including delivery of Correspondence School mail
Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision
Jan 1941: c.220 pupils attend a special vacation course at Waitaki Boys' High School
Headmaster Arthur Butchers & 20 staff organised the activities for the students
Auckland Libraries
By July 1943: 3500 primary & secondary pupils, 100 staff, & a library of over 10,000 volume & 18,600 text books
Evening Post article (14 July 1943) also stated that students included prisoners
National Library of New Zealand
In July 1943, the Correspondence School Parents' Association held 2-day conference which other groups also attended
Resolutions included restoring teacher visits, providing arts & crafts for boys; having a month-long residential school
National Library of New Zealand
April 1944: Parents' Assoc Conf. expressed appreciation for 4 visiting teachers, boys' woodwork, & 2 broadcasts weekly
Resolutions included: extra visiting teachers & CCS teachers, 2 more rooms for staff, & a residential course of 1 month
National Library of New Zealand
12 Dec 1944: At NZCS break-up ceremony, Headmaster stated 104 prim & 181 post-prim students passed exams despite WW2
From 1945, pupils to include some form of craftwork (needlecraft, woodcraft etc) & 2 workrooms were erected for staff
National Library of New Zealand
Difficulties experienced during World War II
At the NZCS break-up ceremony held on 12 December 1944, the Headmaster, Dr Butchers, described the difficulties experienced during World War II:
"Both we, at the school's headquarters in Wellington, and you, studying, at home throughout the length and breadth of the country," said Dr Butchers, "have had to face and overcome many wartime difficulties—for us, difficulties of staffing, accommodation and supplies of text books, stationery, and craft materials; for you difficulties due to the absence on war service of fathers, brothers, and sisters, too, and the added responsibility and work you have had to shoulder on the farms in order to maintain and increase the production of the primary needs of our servicemen and civilian population alike."
In touching upon the extent of the duties carried out by the staff, Dr. Butchers expressed keen appreciation of the devotion of all to that work which, within recent years, had rapidly expanded beyond the mere marking of the fortnightly scripts sent in by pupils. "I wish you could all see the mail vans arriving at our door and discharging their load of mail bags every morning and afternoon," he remarked in commenting on the work of the "silent service" (the clerical branch). A matter about which all would be delighted was that the Department had arranged to have two large additional rooms erected at the school, with the necessary work rooms, to house all the teachers of arts and crafts and their equipment and stores. 'You may not yet have realised it, but from the beginning of next year," he added, "all pupils must include some form of craft work—needlecraft, woodcraft, whatever it may be—in their course. So, all our arts and crafts teachers are to be housed in this new department and we are all looking forward keenly to getting this branch of our service adequately provided for."
Source: Evening Post (12 Dec 1944): "Expanding work: Correspondence School", (Vol CXXXVIII, Issue 141, p.6)
On 21 Dec 1944, a Christmas party was held in Wellington for 70 physically handicapped pupils & parents
The event was organised by the Wellington district branch of the Correspondence School Parents' Association
National Library of New Zealand
June 1945: Correspondence School Ex-Pupils' Association met for the first time in Lower Hutt
National Library of New Zealand
23 Aug 1945: Advert for a Governess to supervise Correspondence School lessons for 12 yr old boy living in "the country"
National Library of New Zealand
On 11 Dec 1945, NZCS held it's end of year ceremony which was broadcast to students on the radio
Parents’ Association’s address reiterated plans for a month long residential course which needed Minister's approval
National Library of New Zealand
By Dec 1945, NZCS provided 6 visiting teachers, library with 6000+ books & broadcasts (c.60-70) annually for 4600 pupils
Clubs & societies included: Junior Red Cross, Lone Guides & Scouts, Naturalists' & Museum Club. Model Building Club, etc
National Library of New Zealand
In 1947, NZCS held its Silver Jubilee to celebrate 25 years in operation. Cover has school badge with motto.
(Booklet: C. S. Forde, “The Correspondence School Silver Jubilee: 1922 – 1947”, published by the Jubilee Committee
Wellington City Libraries
Exhibitions of students' work at Wellington Public Library
June 1947: Exhibition of work by past & present pupils of NZCS at Wellington Public Library
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Part of the 1947 display at Wellington Central Public Library
Correspondence School
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Correspondence School
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Correspondence School
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Correspondence School
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Correspondence School
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Correspondence School
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Correspondence School
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
June 1948: Exhibition of work by NZCS pupils at the Wellington Public Library
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Part of the 1948 display at Wellington Public Library
Correspondence School
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Part of the 1948 display at Wellington Public Library
Correspondence School
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Correspondence lessons provided during polio epidemic when schools closed
During the 1948 polio epidemic, schools closed & NZCS provided lessons to homes & radio broadcasts
The radio broadcasts were held from January to mid-April 1948
Radio New Zealand
Cartoon (1948): Children did lessons from the Correspondance School at home, supervised generally by their busy mothers
Alexander Turnbull Library
Former students & teachers recollect the school closures during 1948 polio epidemic & Correspondence lessons
RNZ audio (1952): "Correspondence School (9:53 min)
Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision
Correspondence School lessons for a patient in the Wellington Public Hospital
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Late 1940s: Correspondence School teachers sorting mail, Wellington
Alexander Turnbull Library
Initiatives included first te reo Māori lesson & month-long residential courses
In 1949, the first course in te reo Māori was launched
Image: RNZ: Audio of lessons for 1956 (22:17 mins)
Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision
In 1949, first annual residential course was held for one month at Massey College - boys & girls alternated each year
In 1972, residential course became mixed-gender. (Image: Physical education for girls at Massey College, Nov 1959)
Palmerston North City Library
1950S
New services for children & adults
Two new services offered by the Correspondence School were reported in the Press on 10 July 1951:
"Tuition to children who are compelled by illness to stay away from school for period as short as a fortnight and tuition to primary education has been curtailed are two services now made available by the Correspondence School. The headmaster of the school (Mr E. N. le Petit) told this to members of the Wellington School Committees and Educational Association last night. He said he did not think the services were generally known. Some children who so profited returned to their schools to be told they were farther ahead with lessons than before they became ill. Adults took advantage of the service when they found that better opportunities would await them if they completed their interrupted educations. At present about 60 were working for primary certificates."
Source: Papers Past: Press (10 July 1951): "Correspondence School pupils" (Vol LXXXVII, Issue 26469, p.6)
A 1956 film about The Correspondence School featured a range of adult students who studied with the school, including public service employees, residents of Pacific Island nations, new migrants and prisoners.
RNZ (1951) Teacher talks about her trip to Balclutha to visit a disabled student (10:49 mins)
By 1952, there were 5 Correspondence School teachers based in cities visiting, counselling & supporting students
Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision
1950: Staff at NZCS pack exhibits for an exhibition in Christchurch
Alexander Turnbull Library
Early 1950s: NZCS children's party
Auckland War Memorial Museum Tāmaki Paenga Hira
Early 1950s: NZCS children wearing party hats with Father Christmas's party
Auckland War Memorial Museum Tāmaki Paenga Hira
1954: NZCS students & teachers visiting Massey Agricultural College
Palmerston North City Library
July 1954: NZ Crippled Children's Society reported arrangements made to enrol children with NZCS
An NZCS teacher was also taken by a welfare officer to visit children in their homes in Wellington
National Library of New Zealand
In 1957, the National Film Unit produced "A letter to a teacher" on the support provided to students (25 mins)
The film was shown in theatres throughout NZ & nominated for inclusion in the Berlin Film Festival
NZ On Screen
21 June 1957: NZCS students with parents and staff on the steps of Parliament Buildings
Alexander Turnbull Library
Dec 1957: Presentation of books to NZCS
Alexander Turnbull Library
Students continued to learn by radio and written lessons
For 12 years, since the age of five, Rosetta Schroder was a Correspondent School student living near Mount Turiwhate on the South Island’s west coast:
“Rosetta resolutely kept at her lessons, switching to a battery radio and kerosene lamp when the family's moody generator failed, and her teachers soon came to know her as well as if she had a front-row desk in their classrooms. She got a prize for written composition at eleven, and last year she graduated from high school with an armful of honors—one of the few New Zealanders to make it all the way through radio school, and the first of the group to be accepted for teacher training.
Source: Time Magazine (23 March 1959), “Learning by radio”, (V.73, Issue 12, p.52)
16 Dec 1958: Geoffrey Sanderson from NZCS inspects a student's camera
Alexander Turnbull Library
Nov 1959: Correspondence School pupils visiting the 'Manawatu Evening Standard'
Palmerston North City Library
1960s
![Image: AC 9 Collecting the mail [Kiwi Colour Slides]](https://thumbnailer.digitalnz.org/?resize=770x&src=https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Fpastperfectonline%2Fimages%2Fmuseum_58%2F203%2F2021005083.jpg&resize=368%253E "AC 9 Collecting the mail [Kiwi Colour Slides]")
c.1960: NZCS student Kathryn Stirling collecting the mail at a sheep station in Mt Cook area
The mail was delivered by a Mount Cook & Southern Lakes Tourist Company bus
South Canterbury Museum
1960: Correspondence School A Association football team which played against Freyberg High School team
Palmerston North City Library
In 1960, the Minister of Education set up a Commission on Education in NZ (the Currie Commission)
Alexander Turnbull Library
19 April 1962: NZCS children from the Gisborne district spent a few days visiting places in Gisborne
Gisborne Photo News
Gisborne Photo News (16 May 1963): NZCS has appointed a resident teacher to visit rural students
The new teacher, Mr H. Intemann, was introduced to students & parents by the Headmaster Mr A.W. O' Reilly
Gisborne Photo News
June 1966: 'Te Ao Hou' announced Margaret Orbell was farewelled after 4 years as editor to join Correspondence School
Margaret taught te Reo Māori at the Correspondence School whilst studying the language at Victoria University
Alexander Turnbull Library
Margaret continued to write for 'Te Ao Hou', send items to 'School Journal' & wrote book "Māori folktales" (1968)
(Image: Pictured with her husband whom she married in 1963 & they had a child in 1969; then moved to Auckland)
Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage
1970s
1971: View of the NZ Correspondence School, on Clifton Terrace
Wellington City Libraries
1972: National Film Unit documentary on caring for children born with disabilities includes correspondence lessons
NZ On Screen
May 1972: NZCS held its Golden Jubilee in Wellington in the last week of May
(Te Ao Hou article (July 1973) about five children & their parents who travelled from Kawau Island)
Alexander Turnbull Library
In 1976, early childhood students (aged between 3 & 5) unable to attend a playcentre or kindergarten could enrol
Critieria included: distance, illness, disability or itinerancy (Image: Early childhood Information guide, 2009)
Howick Historical Village
In 1976, the NZCS building officially opened at 11 Portland Crescent in Thorndon, Wellington
Wellington City Libraries
Oct 1977: Correspondence School field trip held at Rakaia in Canterbury
Group of students at one of the Rakaia River Valley Farms
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Teacher with students at one of the Rakaia River Valley Farms
Education - Correspondence School
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Natural Study group at the Salmon Trap on the Rakaia River
Education - Correspondence School
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Natural Study group at the Salmon Trap on the Rakaia River
Education - Correspondence School
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
1980s
c.1986: Collage of a zoo by the Special Needs section at the Correspondence School
NZEI Te Riu Roa (New Zealand Educational Institute)
1990s
1990s: CD-ROMs, student information database (Xtend) & interactive teaching sessions with audiographics introduced
Bar-coding used across the school to record the movement of student work & resources to & from student resource centre
National Library of New Zealand
1992: TV's "Heartland - French Pass" includes a parent who helped her 9 children study through NZCS
Heartland host Gary McCormick visited the French Pass in the Marlborough Sounds & included the interview with the family
NZ On Screen
May 1993: Education Minister appointed 2 parent representatives to the Board of Trustees after 6 year absence
The Parents' and Supervisors' Association would have preferred parents to be elected rather than appointed
Radio New Zealand
Secondary Learning Centres trialled during Aug 1993 - Aug 1994
A 12-month trial from August 1993 was held by NZCS in partnership with Te Puni Kōkiri and parents to set up Learning Centres for secondary students with a resident supervisor at Matahiwi (Whanganui River Valley) and at Ruatāhuna (Te Urewera). The students' course of study and associated teaching were supplied by the Wellington-based Correspondence School staff, while the supervisor provided assistance to the students and Wellington staff and organised extra-curricular activities. During 1994, 26 students attended at Ruatāhuna and nine attended at Matahiwi. The trial led to the establishment of the Correspondence School's first Secondary Learning Centre at Ruatāhuna in 1996. Another outcome of the trial, was, the Correspondence School establishing the Board of Trustees advisory iwi group, Te Hautanga-a-rohe.
Find out more: Lois Amaru et al (1995), "Tangata Whenua in Distance Education: An Emerging !Model for isolated Maori Secondary Students in the Correspondence School", Journal of Distance Learning (Vol 1), URL: https://jofdl.nz/index.php/JOFDL/article/view/176/138
Aug 1993: 12 month trial of Secondary Learning Centre & supervisor at Matahiwi (Whanganui River Valley) & Ruatāhuna
Trial led to a partnership with Te Puni Kōkiri to establish the Learning Centre at Ruatāhuna (Te Urewera) in 1996
NZ On Screen
12 Nov 1997: RNZ audio - The last Correspondence School programme broadcast on National Radio (21:10 mins)
Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision
May 1999: Dominion photographer captured Correspondence School rally at Parliament for more funding
NZEI Te Riu Roa (New Zealand Educational Institute)
In 1999, Correspondence School's Student Resource Centre opened in Petone, Lower Hutt
National Library of New Zealand
2000s
Introduction of e-learning pilot & changes to the Board of Trustees
From 1 April 2001, NZCS Board of Trustees to be appointed & co-opted by Minister & elected by staff, parents & students
Parents' Association was renamed Parents’ and Supervisors’ Association (TCSPSA) & 'The Friends' became branch in 2002
Department of Internal Affairs
In Oct 2003, Ministry of Ed announced the Minister had directed a review of the roles & operation of NZCS
New chief executive, Debbie Francis (Jan 2004-July 2006), implemented financial changes, including reducing staff
NZEI Te Riu Roa (New Zealand Educational Institute)
In 2004, a new Board of Trustees was appointed by Minister of Education following budget deficit of $6 million In 200
From 1 July 2004, the Board to consist of the Chairperson & six members appointed by the Minister
Department of Internal Affairs
From 1 Oct 2004, NZCS Board of Trustees Chair & "up to six" members to be appointed by Min of Ed
There were to be no representatives elected by staff, parents & students
Department of Internal Affairs
Types of courses available for students
2002-2008: The Correspondence School's "Programme selection guide"
Subtitle: "For school-aged and adult learners at secondary level"
National Library of New Zealand
2005: Correspondence School booklet: "Student guide to primary" for new students
Page 1 states "...contains useful tips and guidance for existing students"
National Library of New Zealand
2005: Correspondence School booklet: "Student guide to secondary" for new students
National Library of New Zealand
2006: Correspondence School booklet: "Early childhood information guide"
National Library of New Zealand
2006: Correspondence School booklet: "Special education information guide"
National Library of New Zealand
2006-09: Correspondence School booklet: "Student guide to national certificates"
National Library of New Zealand
And the prize winner is!
The Correspondence School awarded prizes for academic excellence and outstanding achievement to primary, secondary and adult students living throughout New Zealand and overseas. A list of 65 prizes won in 2002 was announced by Mark Beach, Director of Teaching, in Scoop (17 Dec 2022): "Correspondence School Prizewinners Announced"
March 2009: Article on student completing 1st year of correspondence lessons, support from IHC, & winning a school prize
Won the Elizabeth Boraman-Barrell Memorial Prize (named after former teacher) for disabled or disadvantaged students
National Library of New Zealand
Correspondence School expands programme & restructures into regional model
During 2007, NZCS received funding from the Ministry for ICT professional development for teachers
NZCS was allocated places in nationwide Gateway programme. Integrated programme 'Te Ara Hou' also introduced for Y7-10.
Social Wellbeing Agency
NZCS continued to restructure & developed a regional model under new CEO, Mike Hollings (appointed Aug 2006)
Teachers were organised into multi-disciplinary teams & ‘Form teachers’ were renamed ‘learning advisors’ or ‘kaiako’
Radio New Zealand
Regional offices were established in Christchurch (2008), Auckland (2009) & Hamilton (2009)
The Head Office, Wellington, also became the regional office for lower part of North Island
Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
The Correspondence School renamed Te Aho o Te Kura Pounamu (Te Kura) in 2009
In 2009, the Correspondence School became Te Aho o Te Kura Pounamu, which refers to connecting students with learning
A combination of authentic, blended & online learning aimed to provide a personalised & flexible learning environment
National Library of New Zealand
2010s
Regional offices were expanded
In 2010, NZCS began using the Gonville Centre at Whanganui for face-to-face support for students
(Image: Far left): The Centre on Tawa St was used in partnership with the Whanganui Regional Primary Health Organisation
Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua Whanganui
Authentic learning approach developed
During 2010, Te Kura developed its authentic learning approach based on the Big Picture Model founded in the United States in 1995. Big Picture learning, which placed students at the centre of their own learning, was developed by Dennis Littky and Elliot Washor and led to first The Med high school opening in Rhode Island in 1996. The intent was that the students "would spend considerable time in the community under the tutelage of mentors and would not be evaluated solely on the basis of standardized tests. Instead, students would be assessed on exhibitions of learning and demonstrations of achievement." (Source: Big Picture Learning: What we're about - Who we were)
Authentic Learning at Te Kura "is an approach to learning that focuses on your passions and goals for life beyond school. It uses these as the basis for a learning plan that is unique to you". (Source: Te Aho o Te Kura Pounamu: Guide to Te Kura - Authentic learning, p.8)
2010: Authentic learning approach developed based on Big Picture model where students placed at centre of the learning
(RNZ (25 May 2010: 15:43 min) interviewed one of the Big Picture founders who'd opened The Met high schools in the US)
Radio New Zealand
Trades and vocational studies
From 2011, Te Kura was one of ten new trades academies. Years 11 to 13 full-time and young adult students were given the the opportunity to experience courses at tertiary institutions or in a work environment in their area of interest for their future career. Pathways for tertiary study include Gateway, STAR, Huarahi Trades Academy and Tertiary Link. See Te Kura: Learn with us - Secondary Tertiary Pathways
In 2011, Te Kura was chosen amongst 10 new trades academies
Students could gain NCEA credits & National Certificate in a trade/vocation, eg engineering, early childhood education
Radio New Zealand
Te Kura supported schools in Christchurch area after 2011 earthquake
In 2011, after a magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck the Canterbury region on 22 Feb, Te Kura made resources available
Learning resources were available online & thousands of booklets were sent to learning hubs in Christchurch
Radio New Zealand
New student management system & review of Te Kura's operations
March 2012: $12 million student management system was installed at Te Kura & experienced technical glitches
RNZ (28 Aug 2012): Some of the 14,000 students were unable to receive school work for up to 10 weeks (22:22 mins)
Radio New Zealand
June 2012: Ministry of Education to review Te Kura as teachers say they have concerns over its leadership
RNZ (8 June 2012): Morning report relays concerns over computer issues & CEO being away on a secondment (3:07 min)
Radio New Zealand
RNZ article (24 June 2013): Teachers at Te Aho o te Kura Pounamu report ongoing computer issues
Radio New Zealand
In 2013, the Education Review Office's report called for improvement at Te Aho o Te Kura Pounamu
The report found poor student achievement & participation, & a lack of skills & motivation to work by themselves
Radio New Zealand
RNZ (25 July 2013): Chief Executive of Te Aho o Te Kura Pounamu responds to ERO's report (3:47min)
Chief Executive Mike Holling had been appointed in 2006
Radio New Zealand
In 2013, Te Kura's 1st music production created online for the "Keep Moving" song composed & recorded by 3 students
Chorus was sung by 40 students at a distance in NZ & overseas. Video recording is on Youtube: keepmovingtekura (4:13min)
MOTAT
In 2014, Te Kura began its Authentic Learning Pilot Programme, a $2.7m four-year initiative with Ministry of Education
Initially, it was to focus on up to eighty Year 9-11 at-risk students who did not have face-to-face support
Radio New Zealand
Since 2014, Te Kura's Summer School programme has been held for students to top up NCEA credits & University Entrance
(Article: Enrolments in 2017/18 summer period had jumped to 1238 from 746 in the 2016/17 summer period)
Radio New Zealand
In 2016, Te Kura launched its first reading app for children aged 3+ which was developed with Kiwa Digital Ltd
The bilingual "Ngake and Whataitai, the legend of Wellington Harbour" was developed with Te Atiawa ki Taranaki Whanui
Radio New Zealand
2020s
Te Kura's head office is in Wellington and Regional Managers are located in Wellington, Auckland, Hamilton and Christchurch, with smaller offices in Whāngarei, Tauranga, Rotorua, Hastings, Palmerston North, Nelson, and Dunedin. The Overseas and Early Childhood teams are based in Wellington.
Eligibility criteria to enrol is listed on Te Kura's website: https://www.tekura.school.nz/about-us/who-we-are/about-te-kura/
Sept 2020: Cabinet approved $2.7m to expand Te Kura's services to Auckland NCEA students during COVID-19, Level 4
In 2021, a new emergency enrolment gateway was created to support students affected by the COVID-19 disruptions
Radio New Zealand
During 2021, 500 of 23,000 students lived in remote areas like Arapawa Island in Marlborough Sounds & Chatham Islands
Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage
RNZ article (25 Nov 2021): ERO report states that a rapid increase in at-risk students impacting on Te Kura's services
More than 70% of its full-time students have been referred by the Ministry, Oranga Tamariki & Dept of Corrections
Radio New Zealand
"Today, just 500 out of a total 23,000 pupils live in remote locations like Arapawa Island in the Marlborough Sounds and the Chatham Islands. Te Kura’s transformation over the past 100 years has taken it from The Correspondence School, largely responsible for the education of students in remote locations, to Te Kura, an online distance educator, where half the roll is ākonga Māori, and many full-time students are considered to be at risk of disengaging from education."
Source: Education Gazette (14 Oct 2021), "Warm, rich memories from long history of Te Kura", (Vol 100, No 13)
13 June 2022 (RNZ: 24:26 mins ): Roll of 10,000 at Te Kura included 2,500 children who had not enrolled at their school
Disengaged students, along with those expelled or excluded, may be referred to Te Kura by the Ministry of Education
Radio New Zealand
"As New Zealand’s largest school and the largest state provider of online distance education in the compulsory education sector, Te Kura has a unique place in the country’s educational – and social – history. It currently provides high-quality learning programmes to a hugely diverse group of learners ranging from early childhood to young adults. It teaches New Zealanders who live overseas, young parents, gifted and talented students, prisoners, young adults who need qualifications, students from other schools – known as “dual students” who come to Te Kura to do subjects not offered by their home schools."
Source: Otago Daily Times (20 July 2023), "Te Kura helping young adults succeed"
By 2023, the roll at Te Kura had increased to 30,000 students & new CEO, Te Rina Leonard, commenced in August
(RNZ interview (3 Aug 2023) with CEO Mike Hollings (12:59 mins) who retired on 31 July 2023)
Radio New Zealand
Celebrating 100 years in operation
RNZ (4 Feb 2023): The Detail's Long Read: "The School Away From School" celebrating 100 years
Story written by Bill Morris & published in 'New Zealand Geographic' (Jan/Feb 2023) was read on RNZ (23:46 mins)
Radio New Zealand
FIND OUT MORE
2021: Former student talks about how radio played a major part in her correspondence school education
(RNZ audio: 100 years of radio, listeners' memories" (7:40 mins)
Radio New Zealand
2022: Book "Going the Distance: 100 years of Te Aho o Te Kura Pounamu - The Correspondence School" by Gael Woods
RNZ interview (18 Nov 2022) with author Gael Woods (20:55 mins)
Radio New Zealand
2022: "Braemar Station: celebrating 50 years of Mackenzie faming life" includes the chapter "Correspondence school days"
Book is wriitten by Duncan Mackenzie
South Canterbury Museum
Beryl Hughes. "Mackenzie, Janet Craig McKutcheon", Dictionary of New Zealand Biography, first published in 1998. Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, URL: https://teara.govt.nz/en/biographies/4m20/mackenzie-janet-craig-mckutcheon
Education Gazette (2 Feb 2022), "100 years on – Te Kura is as relevant as ever", (Vol 101, No 1)
Education Gazette (14 Oct 2021), "Warm, rich memories from long history of Te Kura", (Vol 100, No 13)
Lois Amaru et al (1995), "Tangata Whenua in Distance Education: An Emerging !Model for isolated Maori Secondary Students in the Correspondence School", Journal of Distance Learning (Vol 1), URL: https://jofdl.nz/index.php/JOFDL/article/view/176/138
Otago Daily Times (29 Jan 2024), "Te Kura helping young adults succeed"
Seah Naomii (30 Oct 2023), "Te Kura: Not just a correspondence school", School News New Zealand
Te Kura: Our history, URL: https://www.tekura.school.nz/about-us/who-we-are/our-history/