The Government of Niue acknowledges the announcement made by the Government of New Zealand on Monday 4 August 2025 (NZT) regarding major reforms to its national secondary school qualification.

The National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA), in place for over two decades, is proposed to be replaced by a new national qualification system.

The Niue Department of Education adopted the NCEA in 2002; where NCEA Level 1 replaced the School Certificate that year, Level 2 replaced Sixth Form Certificate in 2003, and Level 3 replaced Bursary in 2004. Staff from Niue High School and the Head Office contributed immensely in the recent NCEA reforms particularly in shaping the NCEA Achievement Standards for Vagahau Niue. The NCEA reforms are now fully implemented at Niue High School.

The Department is working closely with New Zealand’s Ministry of Education to assess the proposed changes and their implications for Niue students, particularly those at Niue High School. Key dates and milestones related to the proposed reforms are outlined in the official discussion document, which can be accessed here: https://www.education.govt.nz/have-your-say/consultation-proposal-replace-ncea/details

The Department will continue to liaise with the New Zealand Ministry of Education and anticipates further guidance in the coming week. Once more information is available, the Department will organise community consultations with teachers, parents and caregivers of Niue High School students to discuss the proposed changes and provide an opportunity for feedback. At this stage, the proposed changes are still under review, and the consultation period serves as an opportunity for stakeholders to share their views and input.

We encourage all stakeholders to stay informed and engaged as we navigate these important changes together.

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For further information

Anzee Mougavalu

GON Communications Officer, Email: NiueGovernment.Media@gov.nu