Looking back and looking forward: Understanding and addressing the inequities for Māori in Aotearoa New Zealand’s education system

In this paper, the historical context of inequities in Aotearoa New Zealand’s education system are explored. We track the systematic bias of government policies enacted over the course of the past 200 years and show evidence of bias within the education system through to today. The authors also suggest that there are programmes already developed and shown to positively influence the achievement of all students, particularly Māori and disadvantaged students, which could support them and turn the tide on the inequity of achievement in Aotearoa New Zealand. The need for targeted strategic Government interventions that could significantly enhance the achievement of Māori and contribute to an equitable and just society, will also be discussed.