Too many of these tamariki enter school already behind, where many often have a learning maturity age of around three years old. They lack early childhood education, basic social skills, and even the means to arrive at school each day.

Inequity in education leads to inequity in life outcomes, perpetuating the cycle. We know that barriers to education are often systemic and multifaceted, with poverty, trauma, and access to healthcare and nutrition inextricably linked to a child’s ability to learn. We believe no child should be defined by their circumstances, and evidence shows that tamariki thrive when they are supported, nurtured, and empowered. With early intervention, we can give them the tools they need to break the cycle and reach their full potential.

Through our School Ready Programme, TMF funds 12 full-time teachers across 12 low-decile schools, ensuring every Year 1 child begins their education in a TMF-funded ECE class. Tamariki remain in these specialised classes for two to 12 weeks, developing foundational skills before transitioning into standard Year 1 classrooms.

For students with learning challenges such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and fetal alcohol syndrome, the Foundation employs three highly qualified educational psychologists - each supporting four schools - to help these children reach their full potential. No matter the barrier to education, we solve it, and continue to support tamariki through each stage of education to ensure they continue to achieve.