November 02, 2015
Education Act up for review


New Zealand’s system of self-managing schools could be up for major changes, but people have just six weeks to have their say.
Education Minister Hekia Parata says the world has changed in the 26 years since Tomorrow’s Schools was introduced, and it’s time to look at an update of the Education Act.
She’s asking for feedback on proposals including allowing principals and boards of trustees to lead multiple schools, having five-year-olds start in cohorts rather than on their birthdays, and having a system of sanctions and rewards based on school performance.
There will be no discussion of the government’s policies of charter schools, national standards and the unelected Education Council.
Ms Parata says the Education Act needs to have a clear focus on children and young people, make it clear what the system is looking for, enable collaboration and flexibility, and fully engage parents, whanau and local communities.
Consultation runs until December 14.
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