Webinar Overview
This session introduces two professional development programmes from Aotearoa, New Zealand – the New Zealand Dyslexia-Friendly Quality Mark (DFQM) and the Tapatoru Ako Professional Practice Award. These programmes support inclusive, culturally responsive adult education and are helping educators create safe, effective learning environments, particularly for Māori, Pasifika, neurodivergent, and other underserved learners.

Furthermore, the session also introduces ALEC, an AI-powered teaching assistant that supports educators with literacy and numeracy lesson planning aligned with national frameworks. Rather than replacing educators, ALEC enhances teaching practice and learner engagement. Attendees will gain insights into how inclusive frameworks and practical digital tools can improve adult literacy outcomes.

Hear more about the New Zealand Dyslexia-Friendly Quality Mark and the Tapatoru Ako Professional Practice Award in September at the ACAL Conference, where Annette will present in person.

Presenter bios:

Annette Tofaeono is a New Zealand-based educator and Senior Advisor at Ako Aotearoa. She co-leads the Tapatoru Ako Professional Practice Award and leads the New Zealand Dyslexia-Friendly Quality Mark. With expertise in literacy, dyslexia, and inclusive education, she supports educator capability across the tertiary sector. Her work champions strengths-based, culturally responsive practice that empowers Māori, Pasifika, and neurodivergent ākonga (learners) through equity, manaakitanga (hospitality), and whanaungatanga (relationships).

Graeme Smith
Graeme Smith is a New Zealand-based educator, education consultant, and digital innovator who co-teaches Tapatoru with Annette Tofaeono and created ALEC GPT, an AI-powered assistant supporting tutors to embed literacy and numeracy in vocational and tertiary education. With over 20 years’ experience in foundation and trades education, he works with Ako Aotearoa, TEC, and community partners to design culturally responsive, outcomes-driven LN strategies, including national resources.

Are you an ACAL member?  join ACAL here

Zoom link: Register here

• All registrants: All registrations will receive a link to the recording a few days after the event. (see non-member fees below)
• ACAL members: The recording will be uploaded to the ACAL website a few days after the event.  You will need your password to access the recording.

Webinar Cost:  
ACAL members – FREE
Non-members – $25 pay here or join ACAL here