Learning Support in New Zealand

Every child and young person in Aotearoa New Zealand has the right to learn, grow and participate fully. Learning support helps ensure that all mokopuna receive the right help at the right time, setting a strong foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing.

How Learning Support works

Learning Support is provided through the Ministry of Education and other approved agencies. Services are tailored to each mokopuna needs and may include:

  • Early intervention services

  • Speech-language therapy

  • Educational psychology

  • Behaviour support

  • Occupational therapy or physiotherapy

  • Specialist teaching and advice for educators and whānau

  • Specialist support and services for mokopuna with vision or hearing loss

These Ministry of Education Learning Support services are free.

Who can access Learning Support?

Learning Support services are available for children from birth through to secondary school who sometimes:

  • Experience difficulties with communication, behaviour or social interaction

  • Have sensory, physical, emotional or health needs that affect learning

  • Require additional support to participate fully in educational environments

Support is available for all mokopuna, including those attending kindergartens, kōhanga reo, education and care centres, home-based services, primary, intermediate and secondary schooling, or are receiving support at home.

What do services include?

  • Assessment to understand a child’s strengths and needs

  • Individualised plans to support learning and participation

  • Guidance for parents and educators on strategies to use at home and in ECE settings

  • Regular reviews to monitor progress and adjust support as needed

How to access support

Parents, caregivers or ECE teachers can request learning support. To start the process:

  • Talk to the child’s ECE teacher, Centre Manager, or your GP

  • Contact the local Ministry of Education Learning Support office

  • A specialist will discuss the child’s needs and determine the best type of support

Working together
Why your help matters

A team approach is used, with parents, whānau, educators, and specialists working together to create an individual plan that ensures consistent strategies and positive outcomes for the child. Parents and whānau play a key role in supporting children’s learning. Families are encouraged to share their knowledge, goals and aspirations for their child.

Additional support and resources