The learning pathways for digital citizenship and cybersafety follow the New Zealand Curriculum’s learning pathways. They are designed to build on student’s existing skills and develop school leavers who are capable of managing their own online safety.  

Learning in Years 1-6:  Building a range of skills

A successful cyber safety programme at this stage focuses on students developing skills through experiences where they have both reasonable protection and adult guidance. It lays the groundwork for key competencies and values young people require to effectively utilise digital technologies. Students are likely to be using a range of technologies often with specific instructions and close monitoring by adults.

Learning in Years 7-10:  Competencies, values and behaviours

A successful cyber safety programme at this stage is responsive to the growing independence and social awareness of young people as they explore more complex online contexts, sometimes without supervision. This stage places an emphasis on adult guidance and authentic learning experiences to increase student self-sufficiency.  Integrating key competencies and values into cybersafety education is vital. During these years administrators will be assessing the appropriate balance between providing authentic online learning opportunities and students’ exposure to risk.

Learning in Years 11-13:  Opportunities to practice in authentic contexts

A successful cyber safety programme at this stage will allow students greater opportunities to practice digital citizenry skills. It will recognise the diverse abilities, aspirations and growing responsibility of senior students. It will also recognise that personal values and key competencies have gained significance for these young people as they develop the capabilities they will need as adults in a digital society.  Educators need to provide students with regular opportunities to critically analyse their own values and actions in cyberspace.