From the Holocaust Centre of NZ newsletter…
We are delighted to see the inclusion of the Holocaust in the draft social studies curriculum— a historic first that could ensure every New Zealand student learns about this defining event in human history.
The Ministry of Education is seeking feedback on the draft curriculum until 24 April 2026.
The Holocaust Centre will, of course, make a detailed submission. We encourage everyone who values education against antisemitism and hatred to make a submission.
The Holocaust Centre will soon release materials to help people prepare their responses. Every supportive submission will help ensure mandatory teaching of the Holocaust.
Following consultation, the draft content will be finalised, with formal release of the updated curriculum content planned for mid-2026. If the draft is adopted, in Years 0-10 Social Sciences, the Holocaust will become required teaching from the start of 2027.
This marks a major step forward for Holocaust education in Aotearoa New Zealand, reflecting years of advocacy to ensure mandatory teaching of the Holocaust in our schools.
We are now planning to expand our work with teachers to ensure they are well-equipped to teach the Holocaust with confidence, accuracy, and care.
Together, we can help ensure the lessons of the Holocaust are never forgotten — and that every generation learns from them.
Link to the draft Social Sciences curriculum: https://newzealandcurriculum.tahurangi.education.govt.nz/5637290854.p
Online feedback forms: https://education.surveymonkey.com/r/NWQDBZJ
