New Zealand Foundation for Conductive Education

The Foundation for Conductive Education is not a parent support group, but provides support to nine educational centres around New Zealand which deliver conductive education – a programme which improves the quality of life for children with motor disorders such as Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida and Global Developmental Delay.  

About Conductive Education

The programme originated in Hungary and is based on the philosophy that people with motor disorders of neurological origin can learn.  The emphasis is on helping children to learn to coordinate movements and achieve greater independence in their every day lives. The programmes are delivered by highly qualified and skilled conductors, whose role is that of health professional as well as educator.

Around 150 children from a few months old through to high school are enrolled in nine conductive education centres around New Zealand, several of which are co-located with mainstream schools.

There are centres in Invercargill, Christchurch, Wellington, Hamilton and Auckland.  All provide specialist education and physical therapies that children with motor disorders cannot access easily elsewhere.

The approach is one of education rather than treatment and children are active participants in the learning process.  Activities and movements are broken down to small, achievable steps and tailored for each child to be able to reach their full potential, regardless of their level of disability. 

How is it funded?

Conductive Education is supported by funds from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education.  Some Early Intervention Centres also rely on financial contributions from families.

The Foundation for Conductive Education is a not-for-profit organisation with charitable status registered with the Charities Commission.

How can I get in touch?

Visit www.conductive-education.org.nz to find details of your nearest centre

Contact – Sally Thomas 0800 169 323
Email – nzfce@cecanterbury.org

Fees for conductive education vary by centre and age group.  Please contact the Foundation or your nearest centre for more details.