Specialist schools in New Zealand provide tailored support and education for children (from 5 years of age) and young people (up to and including 21 years of age) with significant learning needs. Specialist schools offer safe and supportive learning environments in primary, secondary and tertiary settings. Each student has a specialist teaching and learning program that is designed to meet their unique learning needs so they can thrive.
Enrollment typically requires a child or young person to have High or Very High ORS (ongoing resourcing scheme) funding.
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The process of enrolling your child or young person in a specialist school can be simple although spaces in a specialist school can be limited. To get started, click on our How to Enrol guide and choose a school in your area to contact. Each school will work with you to navigate the process.
Sonia’s decision to enroll her son Hudson in a specialist school transformed his educational experience, allowing him to thrive academically and emotionally, fostering a brighter future.
Educational leaders, including SEPAnz, oppose government moves threatening Te Tiriti o Waitangi’s role in education.
The 2024 Try Games promoted inclusion, skill-building, and community among New Zealand’s specialist school students.
Ehara I te wāhi ko te tino take, engari me pēhea
– It’s not where, it’s how
Specialist Schools NZ 