What should every child learn?

July 24, 2026

New Zealand’s education system is under increasing pressure. Teachers are stretched, concerns about literacy achievement remain high, parents are anxious about outcomes, and schools are being asked to meet increasingly complex expectations.

Beneath these challenges lie fundamental questions:

  • What is education actually for?
  • What knowledge matters most?
  • Can one model of education serve every child well?
  • What does educational excellence look like in a world where AI is reshaping work—and the skills our children will need?

The panel discussion What should every child learn? explored fundamental questions facing New Zealand education.

Bringing together leaders from across the education sector, the discussion examined what was working, where challenges remained, and what educational excellence could look like for the next generation.

The discussion addressed one of the central issues shaping children’s futures: what a good education should provide.

The evening concluded with a panel discussion moderated by Maryanne Spurdle, Maxim’s Research Manager, followed by audience questions and conversation with the speakers.

Three education-sector perspectives informed the panel: foundational knowledge and curriculum, educational choice, and excellence in practice.

Audience questions, discussion, and opportunities for conversation were part of the programme.

The event took place in Auckland in August 2026.

Stephanie Martin

Stephanie Martin an Adjunct Fellow with the New Zealand Initiative, is the Stakeholder Relationships and Education Manager of the Free Speech Union, and is a registered primary school teacher. She will explore why foundational knowledge, literacy, and a strong curriculum remain central to educational success and long-term flourishing.

Amanda Goodchild

Amanda Goodchild is a co-founder and the Head of School at Twin Oaks Classical School – New Zealand’s first Charlotte Mason charter school.
She will examine whether one model of education can serve every child well, exploring educational choice and the growing interest in alternative approaches to learning.

Brenda McNaugton

Brenda McNaugton is Principal of Epsom Girls Grammar School. Drawing on her leadership experience, she’ll reflect on what educational excellence looks like in practice and how schools can prepare young people for life beyond the classroom.

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