Secondary students will be able to study nine new industry-designed subjects ranging from tourism to next-gen manufacturing from 2029, under a plan announced by the Government today aimed at linking classroom learning to future careers.
Education Minister Erica Stanford and Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis launched the subjects, which will be available to year 12 and 13 students and count towards their secondary school qualifications.
The nine subjects are next-gen manufacturing, applied intelligent systems, construction and built environment, energy and infrastructure, engineering technology, food and fibre systems, health services and care, hospitality food and beverage, and tourism.
Stanford said the subjects had been built alongside industry to give students clearer options.
"These subjects are being developed with industry to give students an exciting range of options, so businesses know young people are building the skills their sectors need, and students can gain knowledge that sets them up for work, trades, training or university," she said.
The subjects would carry "parity of esteem" with traditional subjects such as English and maths, Stanford said, and support pathways into university, trades, training or the workforce.
Willis said a growing economy meant real opportunities for young New Zealanders.
"We're focused on giving students a clear pathway between what they're learning and where the opportunities are: energy, construction, engineering, food and fibre, health, tourism," she said.
The Government invested $15 million as part of Budget 2026 into the qualifications, Willis said.
Stanford pointed to energy company Meridian as one business working with the education sector, describing it as "a win for employers who need skilled workers, and a win for students who can see how their learning can lead to better employment options and rewarding careers".
"We know students are more engaged when they can see the purpose of what they are learning and how it connects to their aspirations, making staying at school relevant for every child, no matter what career pathway they choose," she said.
New subjects to strengthen hospitality career pathways
Hospitality NZ welcomed the announcement, saying the new subjects would help strengthen pathways from secondary school into vocational careers.
Chief executive Kristy Phillips said the sector relied heavily on vocational training.
"We are pleased to see that the Government has strengthened pathways into hospitality from secondary school, and that the hospitality industry will have input into the development of these subjects," she said.
"We have long advocated for clear and consistent career pathways being demonstrated from secondary school into the sector."
Phillips said the new courses would give students the chance to build skills, understand career options in the sector, and support their move into further study, training or apprenticeships.
"From an industry perspective, it also provides us with the opportunity to ensure the curriculum reflects the real-world skills we need as we bring new talent through the industry.
The morning's headlines in 90 seconds, including a billboard blunder for Auckland’s CRL, dangerous turbulence on a flight, and a new twist in the Beckham family feud. (Source: 1News)
Chris Abercrombie, PPTA president, said more information was needed about the delivery of the new subjects.
“We fully support industry-led subjects as a vital part of providing robust vocational pathways for young people," he said.
“Announcing the subjects is far and away the simplest step. Crucially no-one knows how delivery of the industry-led subjects alongside new Ministry of Education led subjects will work at the school level and how enough teachers will be found for the new subjects.
SHARE ME