Disabled people in Aotearoa New Zealand have a range of options and supports available when moving into tertiary education, including universities, polytechnics (Te Pūkenga), wānanga, and private training establishments (PTE’s).
Most tertiary providers offer disability or accessibility support services, which can include note-taking assistance, extra time for exams, adaptive technology, and learning support. These services aim to remove barriers and ensure equal access to study.
Students may also be eligible for financial support, such as the Student Allowance, Student Loan living costs, or the Disability Allowance, which helps cover disability-related expenses. Some providers and organisations also offer scholarships specifically for disabled students or Māori and Pacific learners.
For those who prefer culturally grounded learning, wānanga and kaupapa Māori education providers offer supportive environments that integrate te ao Māori values and often take a more holistic, whānau-centred approach.
There are also alternative pathways into study, including foundation or bridging programmes, part-time study, online learning, and vocational training, allowing students to choose what best fits their needs and goals.
Tertiary education in New Zealand is increasingly focused on accessibility, flexibility, and inclusion, supporting disabled learners to succeed in ways that recognise their strengths, aspirations, and wellbeing.
Foundation Courses
Tertiary providers may offer Foundation courses. Also called bridging or preparation programmes these are entry-level study programmes designed to help people get ready for tertiary education.
They are useful for students who may:
- Not meet the academic entry requirements for a degree or diploma
- Have been out of education for a while
- Need extra support with study skills, literacy, or numeracy
- Want to build confidence before starting higher-level study
What They Involve
Foundation courses usually include:
- Basic academic skills (reading, writing, research, maths)
- Study and time management skills
- Introduction to a chosen subject area (e.g. health, business, trades)
- Support with learning strategies and confidence-building
Why They Are Helpful for Disabled Learners
Foundation courses can be especially valuable because they:
- Provide smaller classes and more support
- Allow time to adjust to study environments
- Help identify and set up disability supports early
- Offer a stepped pathway into certificates, diplomas, or degrees
Life Skills and Supported Learning Programmes
Disabled learners in Aotearoa New Zealand can access a range of programmes that focus on independent living and life skills, alongside or instead of academic study.
1. Life Skills and Supported Learning Programmes
Some polytechnics (Te Pūkenga), wānanga, and private training providers offer supported learning courses that focus on:
- Independent living (cooking, budgeting, personal care)
- Communication and social skills
- Using public transport and community access
- Building confidence and decision-making
These programmes are often small, highly supported, and tailored to individual needs. In Auckland, both Unitec and MIT offer supported learning and/or foundation courses.
2. Vocational Pathways with Life Skills Components
Some vocational courses include daily living skills alongside job training, helping students build:
- Workplace readiness
- Time management and organisation
- Teamwork and communication
These programmes support both independence and employment goals.
3. Wānanga and Kaupapa Māori Programmes
Wānanga often provide holistic, whānau-centred learning, where living skills are taught alongside cultural knowledge, identity, and wellbeing. These programmes can strengthen confidence, belonging, and everyday life capability.
4. Community-Based and Supported Education Options
Some providers offer community-based learning, where skills are developed in real-life settings (e.g. shopping, using services, participating in community activities). It is also worth checking out if you may be eligible for Supported Independent Living via your Needs Assessment Service Co-ordinator.
