What is the NCEA co-requisite?

The NCEA co-requisite is a 20-credit literacy and numeracy requirement that all learners must achieve before they can be awarded any NCEA qualification (Level 1, 2, or 3).

A student only needs to meet this requirement once.

It includes:

• 10 credits in literacy or te reo matatini, and
  

• 10 credits in numeracy or pāngarau.

Why is this important?

The co-requisite has been introduced to ensure that students have strong foundational literacy and numeracy skills which are essential for success in study, work and everyday life. These skills help students meaningfully participate in their learning and pathways beyond school.

How can students achieve the co-requisite?

There are currently two ways students can achieve the co-requisite:

1. Common Assessment Activities (CAAs)
   These are digital assessments in reading, writing and numeracy offered by NZQA. Students across Aotearoa are provided with two opportunities each year (May and September) to sit these assessments within a two-week timeframe.

2. Approved Literacy and Numeracy-Rich Standards
   Students can use credits from specific NCEA achievement standards (like English, Mathematics and other subjects) to earn the required literacy and numeracy credits. If students achieve the co-requisite this way, those credits cannot also count towards the 60-credit requirement for each NCEA level.

When is the CAA?

The first opportunity for students to sit the CAA assessment is 18- 22nd May.

The second opportunity is 14 - 18th September.

How does the kura know when a student is ready to sit the NCEA co-requisite assessment?

Students are only entered when teachers believe they are well prepared. Teachers carefully consider:

• Classroom evidence – ongoing work in reading, writing, and mathematics

• Assessments – e-asTTle and subject assessments in English and Mathematics.

If students are not ready, targeted support will be provided across their subjects to further develop literacy and numeracy skills.

When will I know if my rangatahi is ready to sit the co-requisite?

You will receive a notification that your rangtahi has been deemed to be ready for the first assessment opportunity by Term Two, Week One.

What can whānau do to support students?

• Talk with your rangatahi's teachers, particularly their English and Maths teachers about their progress.

• Encourage reading, writing and maths learning outside the classroom through everyday activities.
  

Further patai?

If you have further patai related to your rangtahi’s development of literacy and/or numeracy skills please contact