New Zealand's National Party Pledges to Make Year 11 Completion Compulsory

New Zealand's National Party pledged on October 11 that a re-elected National government would require students to complete Year 11 or turn 16, whichever comes later, before leaving school. Education spokesperson Erica Stanford said the aim was a full Year 11 of science, English and maths. Students could still seek exemptions for employment or further training. National also promised consistent school start and finish dates nationwide. The party said its proposed Foundational Award would begin in 2028, followed by the New Zealand Certificate of Education in 2029 and the New Zealand Advanced Certificate of Education in 2030.