Anne Tolley

2 March, 2011

Supporting schools to re-open

Education Minister Anne Tolley says over a quarter of schools in Christchurch City have now asked for support to re-open as soon as possible, following last week's earthquake.

�43 schools, more than double yesterday�s total, are determined to open for students as soon as they can, which is extremely encouraging,� says Mrs Tolley.

�These schools will receive all the support they need to provide a safe environment for students, so we can get young people back into learning.�

The Ministry of Education will work with the school board, Civil Defence, and other relevant authorities to determine when the schools can open. Schools are required to undertake a structural engineering report before re-opening.

�Plans are also well underway to provide an education for those students from the schools which have been worst-affected, and where possible we want to keep school communities together,� says Mrs Tolley.

�But given the size of this task, I encourage everyone involved to be flexible.

�Students and parents need certainty, and we are doing everything we can to provide that for them.

�In the meantime, 3759 students have enrolled in other schools around the country, and this continued support from principals and teachers outside Canterbury is greatly appreciated.�

Parents should go to the Ministry website at www.minedu.govt.nz or contact their school for updates on re-opening.