The announcement that Civics, Politics and Philosophy (CPP) is to be introduced as a Year 12 and 13 subject from 2028 marks a significant milestone for philosophy in Aotearoa New Zealand, bringing together civic participation, political systems, civic institutions, ethical decision-making, reasoning, and philosophical inquiry. It recognises what philosophy teachers have long known: that thinking well, arguing well, and living well are learned skills, and they matter.

CPP offers a significant opportunity and a milestone in the development of philosophy in schools, alongside a broad commitment to educating for informed and active citizenship and political engagement.

New Zealand’s decision to bring philosophy together with civics and politics is distinctive and inspired. Where others teach these disciplines separately, CPP recognises that civic and political life demands more than knowledge of institutions and systems. It demands the capacity to reason carefully, question assumptions, and make sound ethical judgements. That is philosophy’s contribution, and it is exactly what the combination of these subjects makes possible.