Transition to Tertiary Education or Work
Students with special education needs may receive support from their school or the Ministry of Education, Special Education (GSE) up until the time they leave secondary school.
Transition from school to tertiary education
The Government's Tertiary Education Strategy talks about equity of access and opportunity for all students. One of the Strategy's objectives is that increasing numbers of people with impairments should be acquiring skills and qualifications.
Tertiary Education Organisations (TEOs) are expected by government to ensure equity of access and opportunity for people with disabilities and to provide the support these students require for full participation. In order to access government funding, TEOs must work towards meeting government objectives outlined in the Tertiary Education Strategy.
Kia orite, Achieving equity: The New Zealand code of practice for an inclusive tertiary education environment for students with impairment is designed to assist tertiary education providers to work towards equity of access and opportunity for their students with impairments.
The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) administers funding for student who go on to tertiary education. Further information about the funding available can be found on the TEC's website.
For further information
Most New Zealand tertiary institutes provide assistance for students with disabilities. This can include accessibility maps, note taking, sign language interpreters, audio aids etc.
The Weka website provided by Enable New Zealand and the New Zealand Federation of Disability Information Centres includes links to tertiary institutions and information on the their disability services.