High NCEA Literacy and Numeracy Exam Fail Rates in Tai Tokerau and South Auckland Raise Concerns

Recent data from the Qualifications Authority has revealed alarming trends in the performance of students from Tai Tokerau and South Auckland in the NCEA literacy and numeracy exams. These exams are mandatory for students to receive any NCEA qualifications, yet the pass rates in these two regions remain significantly lower than the national average.

According to the latest figures, over 2,200 students from Tai Tokerau took the tests, with pass rates of just 49% in reading, 39% in writing, and 40% in numeracy. In South Auckland, approximately 5,000 students sat the exams, achieving pass rates of 43% in reading, 44% in writing, and 40% in numeracy. In contrast, the national average for reading was 61%, writing 55%, and numeracy 57%.

These statistics highlight a stark disparity in educational outcomes between certain regions and the rest of the country. The data also showed that students who had previously failed the exams were even less likely to pass on resit attempts, with pass rates dropping to 41% in reading, 38% in writing, and 42% in numeracy. This is significantly lower than the 68%, 62%, and 65% pass rates for first-time participants.

Further breakdowns of the data revealed that Year 12 students had pass rates of 39% in reading, 37% in writing, and 39% in numeracy, while Year 13 students fared slightly better, with pass rates of 42% in reading, 39% in writing, and 46% in numeracy.

Disparities also emerged among different student groups, with Māori and Pacific students experiencing lower pass rates compared to their peers. This has raised concerns about the fairness and effectiveness of the current system, especially as principals have warned that the tests may lead to a generation of school-leavers without any qualifications.

The issue has sparked a growing call for reform, with some advocating for the overhaul or even the removal of NCEA Level 1. Critics argue that the system is not equitable and is failing to meet the needs of students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Education officials and school leaders are now urging the government to consider targeted interventions, such as additional funding for schools, teacher training, and support for students who are struggling with the new requirements. The government has already announced a $2.5 million boost to help students pass these exams, but many believe more needs to be done to address the underlying issues.

As the debate continues, the focus remains on ensuring that all students, regardless of their background or region, have the opportunity to achieve their full potential and secure the qualifications they need for future success.