Govt announces new Hospitality subject for schools

Hospitality Food and Beverage is one of nine new industry-led subjects being introduced into the National Curriculum for Years 12-13, the Government has announced.

Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis and Education Minister Erica Stanford say the subjects, which will be available from 2029, will give young New Zealanders “more opportunities to connect what they learn at school with the jobs, training, and careers of the future”.

The other new subjects are: Applied Intelligent Systems, Construction and Built Environment, Energy and Infrastructure, Engineering Technology, Food and Fibre Systems, Health Services and Care, Next-Gen Manufacturing, and Tourism.

Hospitality New Zealand Chief Executive Kristy Phillips has welcomed the announcement. “Hospitality relies on vocational training. We are pleased to see that the Government has strengthened pathways into hospitality from secondary school, and that the hospitality industry will have input into the development of these subjects.

“We have long advocated for clear and consistent career pathways being demonstrated from secondary school into the sector. These courses will provide students with an opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge, understand what careers the sector has to offer and support their pathways into further study, training or apprenticeships.

“From an industry perspective, it also provides us with the opportunity to ensure the curriculum reflects the real-world skills we need as we bring new talent through the industry. We look forward to working closely with the Services Industry Skills Board on the development of these subjects.”

The Government says the new subjects will have parity of esteem with traditional subjects such as English and Maths and count towards students’ secondary school qualifications, and support pathways into university, trades, training or the workforce.