The Bachelor of Education (Primary, Pasifika) (Level 7) prepares students to become qualified primary and intermediate school teachers (Years 0–8) with a strong emphasis on Pacific and Maori educational perspectives. It is New Zealand's first primary teaching degree specifically designed to incorporate Pacific worldviews, enabling graduates to teach effectively in diverse and multicultural classrooms.

Key reasons to study this programme

• Become a qualified teacher for primary and intermediate schools (Years 0–8).
• Develop expertise in Pacific and Maori teaching methodologies.
• Gain extensive classroom experience through professional teaching placements.
• Learn culturally responsive teaching practices for diverse communities.
• Complete 21 weeks of supervised practicum in New Zealand primary schools.
• Spend two days each week in a real classroom from the second semester onwards.
• Graduate eligible to apply for provisional practising certification with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.
• Strong employment opportunities in schools throughout New Zealand.

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

Students complete 20 compulsory courses (360 credits) over three years.

Level 5 Courses

• The Child in the Community
• Who Will I Be When I Am a Teacher?
• How Can We Explain Learning?
• Introduction to Pacific Principles in Teaching Practice
• Engaging with Learners and Learning
• The New Zealand Curriculum: A Vision for Children's Learning in Aotearoa
• Culturally Responsive Teaching
• Professional Practice and Inquiry 1

Level 6 Courses

• Organising for Learning
• Communities of Learners
• Professional Practice and Inquiry 2
• Meeting Learner Needs
• Curriculum in Action
• Professional Practice and Inquiry 3

Level 7 Courses

• Pedagogy and Curriculum
• Teacher as a Researcher: Raising Learner Achievement
• Professional Practice and Inquiry 5

Across the programme, students develop expertise in:

• Literacy
• Mathematics and Statistics
• Science
• Technology
• Social Sciences
• The Arts
• Learning Languages
• Health and Physical Education
• Educational Research
• Classroom Management
• Inclusive Education
• Curriculum Planning
• Assessment and Evaluation
• Professional Practice
• Pacific and M?ori educational perspectives. 

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

The programme develops knowledge and skills in:

• Primary Education
• Intermediate Education
• Pacific Education
• M?ori Education
• Literacy Education
• Mathematics Education
• Science Education
• Technology Education
• Social Sciences
• Inclusive Education
• Educational Leadership
• Professional Teaching Practice
• Curriculum Design
• Assessment
• Educational Research
• Culturally Responsive Teaching
• Child Development
• Classroom Management.

Programme Highlights

• Category 1 NZQA provider.
• New Zealand's first bachelor's degree focused on Primary Pasifika Education.
• Strong integration of Pacific and M?ori educational approaches.
• 21 weeks of supervised teaching practicum.
• Two days per week in primary school classrooms from Semester 2.
• Graduates become eligible for provisional teacher certification.
• Strong emphasis on culturally responsive teaching.
• Experienced lecturers and close partnerships with local schools.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available.
• Flexible part-time study option.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers including:

• Primary School Teacher
• Intermediate School Teacher
• Classroom Teacher (Years 0–8)
• Curriculum Leader
• Learning Support Teacher
• Teacher in bilingual or multicultural education settings

With additional qualifications or experience, graduates may also work as:

• Principal
• SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)
• Team Leader
• Careers Adviser
• Child Psychotherapist
• Counsellor
• Family Support Worker
• Health Play Specialist
• Museum Education Officer
• Play Therapist
• Private Tutor
• Youth Worker

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• From 2025, the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand introduced strengthened mathematics competency requirements for initial teacher education programmes.
• Students commencing in 2026 must pass the prescribed mathematics assessment before entering their second year.
• Students commencing from 2027 onwards must pass the prescribed mathematics assessment before admission to the programme.
• Students must complete all required practicum placements.
• Programme fees are indicative and reviewed annually.
• A Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) is charged separately.
• International students are required to attend face-to-face classes; online-only study is not available.

Student Visa Requirements

International students must obtain a valid New Zealand Student Visa before commencing study.

Applicants generally need to provide:

• Offer of Place from Manukau Institute of Technology.
• Proof of payment or sufficient funds for tuition fees.
• Evidence of adequate living expenses.
• Valid passport.
• Proof of English language competency meeting NZQA and Teaching Council requirements.
• Medical examination and chest X-ray (if required).
• Police clearance certificate (where applicable).
• Approved medical and travel insurance.
• Compliance with all Immigration New Zealand student visa requirements.