Journal article

The term assessment capable was introduced in New Zealand to distinguish between the more formulaic use of assessment-for-learning practices, and those that empower students to become self-regulated learners. This article explores the concept of assessment capability. It considers what it means to be an assessment-capable teacher in New Zealand, the lessons that have been learned in this area, and why the realisation of the assessment-capable student may be challenging.

In November 2015, 469 submissions posted to a select committee inquiry into identification and support for students with the significant challenges of dyslexia, dyspraxia and autism spectrum disorders in primary and secondary schools were downloaded. This article includes comments selected from a group of submissions from 141 direct family members of children with special educational needs (SEN). These highlight the financial costs borne by some families as they support the educational future of their child with SEN. Narratives suggest that these costs can be considerable and ongoing.

Awareness of mindfulness in New Zealand school communities is growing, and many teachers are becoming aware of its significance to support health and wellbeing in the classroom. This article discusses qualitative research on a 6-week mindfulness programme for teachers and students which showed that teachers perceived specific mindfulness activities reduced their stress levels and improved their present-moment awareness.

Teachers involved in New Zealand research conducted to develop forward-looking literacy pedagogy explained they needed ongoing support to make their new practices sustainable. This article responds to that request. We begin with a whistle-stop tour of the rapidly evolving literacy landscape, briefly reviewing key concepts of critical multiliteracies and the four resources model as we develop a rationale for the design of curriculum literacies. Next, we focus on one visual text to demonstrate how teachers can design curriculum literacies using the four resources model.