Since 2021, we have supported schools to gain approval and accreditation for the New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills Level 1. This qualification provides an alternative pathway for Year 11 students. Its purpose is to equip learners with the skills, knowledge, and attributes needed to engage or re-engage with learning, and to continue into further study, training, or work in structured environments.

Grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the programme is designed to support success for learners whose needs are not being met by the current NCEA qualification framework.

AFSAPA became an Approved Subject Association in 2021 and an Incorporated Society in 2022, with early accredited schools including Ashburton College, Pukekohe High School, and Papatoetoe High School.

In 2023, new NZQA-approved unit standards strengthened the qualification and now guide all new programme applications.

In 2025, the first three schools gained programme approval for Level 2 of the New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills. In the same year, we became a Network of Expertise, supported by Ministry of Education funding to expand access for secondary students across Aotearoa New Zealand. AFSAPA are also developing a Level 3 Programme in 2026.