Increases in class sizes look to be on the cards, after Education Minister Hekia Parata can't guarantee her proposed education funding model will result in no increase in class sizes, the Green Party said.
"It doesn't seem to trouble the Minister if her proposal results in bigger classes, but she is ignoring that New Zealand parents see class sizes as vital for their child's education," Green Party education spokesperson Catherine Delahunty said today.
Appearing on The Nation this morning Education Minister Hekia Parata answered questions for the first time about her proposed return to bulk funding for education.
"The last time Hekia Parata tried to increase class sizes, there was a revolt around the country by parents who were able to pause class size increases.
"The Minister's freeze on operation funding for schools in this years Budget already mean schools are desperately short on funding. Should schools cut heating for classrooms, learning support for struggling kids, relief teachers, or access to computers in schools?
"The poorer the school, the tougher the choices that they will face about what to fund or not fund, not to mention how hard it is for that school to fundraise amongst the parents.
"It will be very difficult for Principals to make it work without cutting teachers, support staff, and administrative staff at a minimum.
"It is outrageous that when public education is under such threat, that the Minister wants to increase funding for private schools.
"More money for private schools will come at the expense of state schools, and this will not help most families around New Zealand.
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