The primary teachers' union has welcomed a new report that outlines a plan for te reo Maori to become a core curriculum subject.

The Maori Language Commission commissioned the New Zealand Council for Educational Research report, which proposes raising the status and increasing the use of te reo by making it a core curriculum subject beginning in Year 1 in 2020 until it is included in all levels up to Year 13 by 2037. NZEI president Lynda Stuart says teachers understand the importance of nurturing te reo for all New Zealanders but often don't feel equipped or confident enough to teach it effectively.

"This proposal is a good move and a strong plan that can be implemented effectively over time as teachers are supported to increase their te reo proficiency.

"Normalising te reo makes learning more inclusive for Maori children.”