The Role of Tapatoru in Meeting the NZQA’s Code of Practice: Helping Providers Embrace Cultural Competency in Tertiary Education

The Code of Practice, Tapatoru and the New Era of Tertiary Education

In the heart of Aotearoa’s quest for educational excellence, the award winning globally recognised Tapatoru Programme emerges as a beacon of culturally responsive and inclusive education. This post delves into how Tapatoru aligns with The Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021, spotlighting its role in complementing tertiary institutions’ efforts to meet the Code’s overarching objectives.

Decoding the 2021 Code of Practice

Published by NZQA in December 2021, The Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice is a cornerstone document. It sets comprehensive standards for pastoral care, emphasising culturally responsive services, learner wellbeing, and mandated procedures for educational institutions.

Bridging Gaps with Tapatoru

Tapatoru’s emphasis on cultural competency resonates profoundly with the Code’s vision. It offers a pathway to creating a culturally sensitive and inclusive environment, aligning seamlessly with outcomes and processes outlined in the Code. Let’s explore the synergy between Tapatoru’s initiatives and the Code’s requirements.

Cultural Competency at Forefront

Central to both Tapatoru and the Code is the emphasis on culturally responsive education. Tapatoru’s strategies in nurturing cultural competencies among educators play a vital role in supporting the Code’s vision of an inclusive educational environment.

Learner Wellbeing: A Shared Priority

Prioritising learner wellbeing and safety, Tapatoru complements the Code’s focus on creating safe, supportive learning environments. Its learner-centred approach and inclusive practices echo the Code’s objectives in safeguarding learner wellbeing.

Beyond the Classroom: Active Engagement and Participation

Tapatoru’s methodologies in fostering active learner participation align with the Code’s emphasis on promoting an inclusive culture, supporting diverse backgrounds and encouraging engagement.

Navigating the Challenges

While Tapatoru significantly supports the Code’s cultural and pedagogical aspects, it doesn’t directly address administrative, policy, and procedural elements of the Code. These include detailed policy requirements, international learner care, and specific emergency management protocols.

The Journey Ahead: Tapatoru and Tertiary Education’s Future

As we reflect on Tapatoru’s role in enhancing New Zealand’s tertiary education, it’s clear that the Programme serves as an invaluable tool in meeting many of the Code’s educational goals. However, for complete adherence to the Code’s extensive requirements, additional resources and strategies are necessary.

Tapatoru has laid a strong foundation for a culturally responsive and learner-focused educational environment. Yet, the journey towards full compliance with the 2021 Code of Practice calls for a collaborative effort, integrating Tapatoru’s strengths with broader institutional measures.

Tapatoru’s home is here at Ako Aotearoa but you can also access all of the currently available teacher education content online via Pathways Awarua.