Farmers Weekly reports the reversal of the Government’s decision not to include agriculture as a secondary school subject after the decision was criticised by agricultural education leaders.
Agricultural and horticultural science will remain a standalone, Ministry-led subject for Years 12 and 13, rather than being developed as an industry-led subject, and agribusiness will remain integrated within business studies at Years 12 and 13.
Agribusiness in Schools curriculum director Kerry Allen welcomed the decision as a great result.
“The decision means for agriculture, horticulture and science that we are able to target those students who want to take more of an academic pathway.
“It’s very exciting and it does mean that more younger people will be able to get into the primary sector.”
Making agribusiness a compulsory part of the business studies curriculum would also give students greater exposure to the sector, Ms Allen said.
It should be a great win for both agribusiness and business studies.
Pauline Cleaver, Associate Deputy Secretary – Curriculum, Pathways & Progress at the Ministry of Education, said the ministry had reviewed and revised its advice on the future of agricultural and horticultural science in the senior secondary curriculum.
“This reflects the subject’s specialist scientific nature and the conclusion that it would not be adequately covered through other science subjects or the primary industries subject. The subject will be developed alongside other science disciplines to maintain curriculum coherence and support progression from Year 11 science.”
The FW report said Ms Cleaver acknowledged the strong feedback received from educators, industry, and communities, and said the Ministry has acted to make sure the subject remains accessible, valued and aligned with student pathways into the primary industries.
It also confirmed that agribusiness will remain integrated within Business Studies at Years 12 and 13 and “the Ministry will work closely with subject associations to ensure agribusiness is clearly visible and valued within the subject.”
Source: Farmers Weekly
