Education and training

Education in New Zealand is a primary mechanism for the development of skills within the population. Formal education affects all people from under 5 years of age (for pre-schoolers) to 16 years (the school leaving age) and beyond into the tertiary sector. Formal education is compulsory for those aged 6 to 16. Statistics about education include participation rates and achievement in preschool, primary and secondary school education, and post-school and tertiary education.

	Primary education Primary school education is the first level of compulsory education in New Zealand.
	Secondary education Secondary school is the second level of compulsory education in New Zealand.
	Tertiary education Tertiary education offers post-school education that includes industry training, adult and community education, foundation studies and study at tertiary institutions like universities, polytechnics, wānanga and private training establishments.