Hon Bill English

National Party Education Spokesman
23 May 2005

Schools openly defy Mallard

Education Minister Trevor Mallard is facing yet another embarrassing conflict as many schools plan to flout unwanted changes to the school year, says National's Education spokesman, Bill English.

Principals have openly threatened to boycott proposed changes that would see a new break introduced in the third term from next year.

"This is yet another example of the Minister not properly consulting before making arrogant decisions about what is best for schools.

"Trevor Mallard seems to believe that bureaucrats know what is best for schools and their communities.

"Last week's Budget confirmed just whose advice he prefers. While the Ministry of Education is to receive an extra $24.3 million in funding for performing their basic functions, schools will receive a paltry extra $19.3 million to further their already stretched operations budgets.

"This is yet another sign that Labour is increasingly out of step with the demands of parents and communities," says Mr English.

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