What should every child learn?

July 24, 2026

Join us at Verity – Women Shaping the Future, an evening of thought-provoking conversation and meaningful connection. 

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?

Join us for What should every child learn? This Verity evening will explore one of the most important questions facing New Zealand today.

Bringing together leaders from across the education sector, we’ll explore what is working, where challenges remain, and what great education looks like for the next generation.

Thoughtful, practical, and hopeful, the evening will create space for discussion around one of the most important issues shaping our children’s future.

Event details

Date: Wednesday 19 August
Time: 6:30pm for drinks and nibbles. Evening begins at 7:00–8:30pm
Venue: The Journey, 1 Marewa Road, Greenlane
Register your spot: https://events.humanitix.com/verity-women-shaping-the-future

The evening will conclude with a panel discussion moderated by Maryanne Spurdle, Maxim’s Research Manager, before opening the floor for audience questions and conversation with our speakers.

This is a free event for women, but a koha upon registering is always appreciated.

Bring your questions, your friends, and your curiosity. As always, there will be plenty of time for audience questions, conversation, and connection.

We look forward to seeing you there!

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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