Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga
MP for Maungakiekie

05 August 2011

MP welcomes changes to education in Tamaki

Maungakiekie MP, Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, welcomes the announced changes to schooling in Tamaki to strengthen education in our community.

Following consultation with nine schools, as well as parents and the local community, The Minister of Education, Hon Anne Tolley, has announced that some primary schools will be allowed to expand their rolls to take older students.

“The feedback I received from parents and the local community made it clear that their preference was for full primary schools up to Year 8 in Tamaki,” says Mr Lotu-Iiga.

Glen Innes, Glenbrae Primary, Panmure Bridge, Tamaki Primary and Ruapotaka Schools will change from Years 1-6 to Years 1-8 schools. They will be able to enrol Year 7 students in 2012 and Years 7 and 8 students in 2013.

Glen Taylor and Pt England Schools will continue as Year 1-8 schools.

“The expanding rolls of these schools will have an impact on the already falling roll at Tamaki Intermediate and reluctantly I agree with the decision to close Tamaki Intermediate School,” says Mr Lotu-Iiga.

This would take place in a phased way, with the intermediate school enrolling only year 8 students in 2012, and closure taking effect from 27 January 2013.

“Ultimately any decision has to represent the views of parents and the local community and have the student’s best interests at heart,” says Mr Lotu-Iiga.

The Board of Trustees of Tamaki Intermediate School will now have a chance to advise the Minister of Education in writing, within 28 days, if it has any further arguments in favour of the school staying open.

“I will continue to work with the Board, Principal and parents of Tamaki Intermediate as it considers this decision and the options available to them,” says Mr Lotu-Iiga.

ENDS

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