The Political Rhetoric and Everyday Realities of Citizenship in New Zealand Society and Schools

Abstract

New Zealand has historically been a relatively egalitarian society and there important steps have been taken to redress the colonization of the Maori people. But, in the decades since 1984, socio-economic disparities have increased and there is still much to be done to translate progressive legislation into everyday reality. Thrupp argues that education for social justice and citizenship mirrors these societal contradictions. The extent to which the formal curriculum becomes enacted with a social justice orientation often falls short of aspiration and New Zealand teachers are under considerable workload pressures that cut across their good intentions. Education for citizenship and social justice is becoming marginalized by the standards agenda and a fixation on data. The promotion of citizenship and social justice through New Zealand education remains tenuous.