At Unitec, we are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive. Inclusion means recognizing and valuing the diverse experiences and abilities of our people. This includes supporting disabled colleagues, embracing neurodiversity, and ensuring accessibility in everything we do.
Key Definitions
Disability
The UN Convention defines persons with disabilities as those with “long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which, in interaction with various barriers, may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others”.
In New Zealand, about 17% of the population—around 1 in 6 people—identify as disabled.
Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in how human brains function and process information. It includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other conditions. In Aotearoa, 15–20% of people are neurodivergent.
Accessibility
Accessibility means designing environments, products, and services so everyone—including people with disabilities—can use them effectively.
Accessible workplaces benefit everyone and are essential for equity.
Why this matters?
Embracing disability and neurodivergence in vocational education is essential for building a truly inclusive and equitable Aotearoa New Zealand. It ensures that all learners—regardless of ability or cognitive style—can access meaningful education, develop their skills, and contribute to the workforce in ways that reflect their strengths. By valuing diverse ways of thinking and being, vocational education can better meet the needs of communities, foster innovation, and uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments to equity and participation.
Creating inclusive learning environments also helps dismantle systemic barriers and promotes social and economic justice for disabled and neurodivergent people.
Training resources
Disability Confidence 101 e-Learning module on Achieve
The Disability Confidence 101 eLearning training resource seeks to challenge ingrained cultural and attitudinal barriers that perpetuate disability discrimination and provides kamahi with a general overview of the legislative framework which supports the inclusion of disabled people in New Zealand.
Tertiary Education and Training Educators on Achieve
This program is designed for Tertiary Education and Training Educators and focuses on promoting a range of practices that support the development and implementation of inclusive delivery and assessment strategies that are responsive to the needs and requirements of disabled learners.
Tertiary Education and Training Support Staff on Achieve
Building further understanding and confidence in supporting disabled learners throughout their engagement and successful completion of their studies in tertiary education and vocational training is a key way to support inclusion. This programme aids support staff in effectively engaging with disabled individuals, enhancing their experience and educational results.
Australian Disability Network – It’s not hard to be inclusive
It’s Not Hard to be Inclusive #RemoveBarriers | Australian Disability Network
If you need support accessing the training modules or would like to discuss team training needs, please reach out to ODETamaki@unitec.ac.nz
Guides
10 Tips Workplace Adjustments;
Website Resources
Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People
NZ Government Accessibility Guidelines
Unitec Disability Support Services
Access4Success Disability Service – Te Aka
Kia Ōrite Toolkit – Tertiary Education Commission (TEC)
A code of practice for creating inclusive tertiary environments for disabled learners. Includes:
- Best practice standards
- Tools for embedding equity across the learner journey
https://www.tec.govt.nz/learner-success/developing-your-learner-success-plans-and-disability-action-plans/disability-action-plans/kia-orite-toolkit
How You Can Help
- Use inclusive language (e.g., “disabled person” or “adjustment needs”).
- Ensure documents and presentations are accessible (use alt text, readable fonts, and captions).
- Be open to different communication and working styles.
- Ask, don’t assume—respect individual preferences.
Together, we can create a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered.