Principals warn schools will need more funding if they are to achieve the government's goals for reading, writing and maths.
It is now a requirement that schools teach children in Years 0-8 reading, writing and maths for an average of at least one hour a day.
But the President of the Principals Federation, Leanne Otene, says resources are needed before that target can be met.
She spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.