Te Pūkenga launches online resources to help tertiary education providers better support learners

Te Pūkenga is proud to announce the development of a comprehensive suite of engaging online modules and practical resources designed to help New Zealand tertiary education providers to better support and protect their learners.

The resources are housed on Edulink, a curated hub, developed by Te Pūkenga, of professional learning and development resources. It is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to positively impact the wellbeing and safety of ākonga.

The resources are specifically crafted to ensure compliance with the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Ākonga) Code of Practice 2021 (the Code), which sets the standards for the well-being and safety of all ākonga, including international students.

Te Pūkenga recognises the importance of complying with the Code to ensure all learners throughout Aotearoa are supported and protected. By making these resources available to all providers, Te Pūkenga underscores its commitment to doing everything possible to create a safe and supportive environment for learners.

The resources include four online learning modules:

1. Cracking the Code: Introduction to the Code
2. Supporting ākonga mental health and wellbeing
3. More than just a room (accommodation)
4. Understanding and responding to dyslexia

The online modules can be completed individually, as a team, or as part of training for learner-facing staff.

"We hope these resources will be useful – and used! – by all tertiary education providers in Aotearoa. They offer practical, accessible training that will help us all meet the highest standards of pastoral care," says Diana Law, Te Pūkenga Pastoral Care Code Project Manager.

"We believe by providing these tools, we’re taking a significant step towards enhancing the overall well-being and safety of ākonga throughout the motu," adds Gus Gilmore, Te Pūkenga Chief Executive.

“All Te Pūkenga business divisions are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment. By developing and sharing these resources, we aim to empower all providers to uphold the highest standards of pastoral care,” Mr Gilmore says.

For more information, please visit Edulink.