Skip Content
Prison graduates
Prison graduates are laying the foundations for a better future thanks to a Te Wānanga o Aotearoa literacy and numeracy programme.

Last week, six prison-based learners graduated from the Everyday Skills Intensive Literacy and Numeracy programme at Rimutaka Prison.

Each of the learners have progressed from Step 1 and 2 on the adult literacy and numeracy progressions scale to Step 3 or above.

In literacy the progression means they can now read everyday words with ease. In numeracy terms it means they are now able to calculate simple equations and use tools for measurement.

Under the programme a typical learner receives 100 hours of tuition to help him or her progress to a higher step of literacy and numeracy skills. From there they will be better placed to transition into NZQA-recognised qualifications and gain the skills they need for employment.

Innovation Development Group Director Aisha Ross says the ceremony was a significant milestone for the learners.

“Through learning to read and write and applying basic numeracy in their lives, these learners will be better equipped to engage with their whānau and society,” he says.

“Te Wānanga o Aotearoa believes the programme not only encourages them to set positive goals but it provides them with a strong foundation to participate fully in all aspects of family and social life including higher levels of education.”

Corrections Principal Adviser Education and Training Nigel Banks says the programme puts a greater focus on supporting a learner’s identity, culture and language.

Tutors work face-to face with learners in a culturally-responsive way.

“This helps with engagement and achievement. We’re enthusiastic about the potential pathways to further education and employment.”

“And by lifting their literacy and numeracy levels they are in a better position to benefit from Corrections’ rehabilitative opportunities,” says Nigel.

Eight hundred and eighty four learners have enrolled in the programme since it began in 2015/16.

TWoA has a three-year contract to provide intensive literacy and numeracy support to around 1,200 prisoners a year


 Back to news & events

Published On: March 29, 2017

Article By:



Other Articles

  • 23 September 2025

    HRC Maternal Health Inequity Report

    New research led by Dr Sarah Lockwood highlights critical gaps in maternity care during Cyclone Gabrielle, urging the Government to include midwifery and Māori leadership in emergency planning. The report calls for equity-focused reforms to protect pregnant women and whānau in climate crises.

  • 18 September 2025

    From Wānanga baby to Wānanga tauira

    Ripekka Matthews’ lifelong connection to Te Wānanga o Aotearoa began as a child and continues today through her te reo Māori studies. Discover how her journey from wānanga baby to tauira reflects whānau legacy, cultural identity, and the transformative power of education.

  • 05 September 2025

    Cooking up confidence in te reo Māori

    Āku Hapa! is a reo Māori cooking show created by Te Wānanga o Aotearoa tauira, blending kai, kōrero, and comedy. Streaming on Māori+, this series celebrates learning te reo through laughter, mistakes, and whānau connection - one delicious dish at a time.

  • 29 August 2025

    New baby brings new purpose

    Ropata Haddon’s journey through te reo Māori study at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa was reignited by the birth of his child. Discover how fatherhood, kapa haka, and whānau support are helping him embed te reo and tikanga Māori into everyday life for future generations.