Meeting considerations around programme content in programme endorsement

Ngā Whakamārama 

Programme content is the heart of the programme. Ensuring that programmes are flexible, reflect real-life workplace conditions, meet the needs of industry and meet qualification graduate profiles are critical. 

We use the below guidelines to evaluate the programme content consideration:

• Ensuring the programme reflects any published guidance either by NZQA or Muka Tangata. 

• Delivery requirements adequately provide for experience of and/or instruction in critical areas. For example:  

• • Access to relevant tools, equipment, applications or materials 

• • Appropriate employer scope of work or work placement opportunities 

• • Exposure to, or experience with, relevant methods and practices  

• • Flexible delivery methods to meet a diverse range of learner needs.  

• The programme complies with relevant industry legislation, regulations or standards (including national regulatory frameworks, health and safety of learners, impact of applicable international agreements, and potential alignment with international standards). 

• A pedagogy of practice and philosophy which is well-defined.  These show what underpins providers’ teaching and learning practice. 

• The assessment methods reflect or simulate workplace conditions at the right time that supports learner progression. 

• The requirements for staff involved in training and assessment are up-to-date with current industry practice.  

• The programme aligns with the strategic purpose of the qualification including the industry, target audience and intended purpose. 

• The programme meets all requirements included in the qualification specification and relevant conditions. 

• Clear mapping to show the assessment standards or outcomes selected align with the qualification Graduate Profile, and/or programme learning outcomes.  

• The programme considers emerging technologies and developments.  

• Evidence that industry have been consulted and have sign off on the programme being submitted. 

• Assessment and moderation processes meet good practice principles.

• Evidence of opportunity for RPL (recognition of prior learning) when possible. 

• Practical examples of plans for implementation with consideration to Pacific learning and languages.  Link considerations to the Ministry of Education Action Plan 2020-2030 and the Five Key Shifts. 

• Tangata Whaikaha (people with disabililties) – identifies which part of ‘Enabling Good Lives’ are being focused on and shows evidence that what is planned is supported. 

• Evidence of how Māori learners will be supported within the programme as well as at institutional level. 

• Applications should reference page number and/or sections of supporting documents. 

Read about our other considerations here ›

Read more about programme endorsement ›