In a landmark move to better support Pacific teachers and protect Pacific culture in Aotearoa, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) has updated its English competency requirements. These changes come after a consultation process involving key Pacific advocates, including Samoan Aoga Amata I Samoa I Aotearoa (SA’ASIA), members from the Tāfesilafa’i initiative, Healthy Families Waitākere, and leading academics. Healthy Families Waitākere Pacific Systems Lead, Ella Falakoa, continues.
“Education plays a key role in shaping strong, culturally connected communities. When Pacific teachers work in bilingual and immersion settings, they are preserving Pacific languages and traditions, fostering a deep sense of identity and belonging for children and families. This connection to culture strengthens wellbeing, reduces feelings of marginalization, and builds resilience. By addressing systemic barriers, these changes also promote equity, ensuring that Pacific communities have access to education that reflects their values and supports health in ways which make sense within their unique culture.”
The rigid English language requirements, including an IELTS score of level 7, had long been identified as a significant barrier for Pacific teachers in Aotearoa. This requirement hindered the recruitment and retention of teachers for bilingual and full immersion learning programs, created barriers for young people aspiring to become teachers, resulted in the closure of tertiary courses, and negatively impacted the delivery of culturally grounded education for children. Irene Paleai-Foroti, Director of Sosaiete Aoga Amata Samoa i Aotearoa (SAASIA) understands these factors add further pressure on the elderly teachers.
“We have an aging sector; the passion and heart of our elders are still strong, but their physical bodies are not the same”
Healthy Families Waitākere played a pivotal advocacy role in this process, utilising the deep knowledge garnered through Tāfesilafa’i initiative to raise awareness of the impacts of these policies. Through community engagement and partnerships, including national coverage with The Spinoff and ONE News, Healthy Families Waitākere highlighted the need for change. Their efforts underscored the critical connection between Pacific teachers and the survival of Pacific languages and cultures for those who call Aotearoa home.
The updated IELTS policy now allows for other evidence of English language proficiency. This includes the educational background of applicants from Pacific countries where English is the primary language and accepting principal-endorsed testimonials conforming a person’s English skills.
Falakoa continues,
“This is a collective victory for Pacific communities, educators, and whānau. It sets a precedent for addressing systemic barriers that disproportionately affect Pacific people who call Aotearoa home. By facilitating pathways for qualified Pacific teachers, this policy change signals the education system honours and nurtures Pacific cultures across the motu.”
