Achievement based funding would be a disaster

Achievement based funding would be a disaster for New Zealand children

The Education Minister’s speech to the PPTA Conference yesterday raising the spectre of achievement data driving a new funding system would be disastrous for New Zealand children, says NZEI Te Riu Roa.

“National standards data should never be used to blame and punish the schools doing the hardest work with our most disadvantaged children,” said NZEI Te Riu Roa National Secretary Paul Goulter.

Similar performance funding schemes which link resources to student achievement have failed overseas and should not be any part of a funding re-design , as they would only worsen inequality and make it harder for children in our poorest communities to achieve.

“Instead of removing already limited resources from schools in low socio-economic areas, government needs to address all of the factors that disadvantage children. Inadequate family income, poor housing, and lack of support for parents are making it harder and harder to children to learn. Addressing these issues should be government priorities."

Paul Goulter said that a performance based funding system would transfer resources from ‘low-achieving’ schools in our poorest areas to high decile schools, and the impact of inequality would be even harsher for thousands of children.

“Our funding system must not be based on removing funding from those that need it most.”

ENDS

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