3 April 2007

Waverley High School to close

Waverley High School will close on 20 April 2007, Education Minister Steve Maharey has today announced.

“After considering feedback from the school, the commissioner, and the community, I believe Waverley High School is no longer viable.

“While the roll of the school has been high in the past, it is now at a level that is too low to effectively provide the national curriculum for students in years 7-13."

This announcement follows months of consultation with the local iwi, Ngaa Rauru, staff of the school, parents, the wider community and boards of schools whose role might be affected by the closure.

"I also had a meeting in Wellington last week with teachers and students from the school, who made an excellent representation.

“Although the school community will be disappointed by the closure, it is essential that all students are provided with the best possible learning opportunities and experience a quality education."

The Ministry of Education has a support plan in place to help students through the transition from the closure of Waverley High School, to the move to other schools in the area.

“I have written to the commissioner of the school to show my appreciation for the hard work and effort service staff and former trustees have put into Waverley High School and its community over the years.

“I am aware that Waverley Primary School’s board of trustees may wish for it to become a Year 1-8 full primary. An application of this nature could allow education provision for Year 7 and 8 students in Waverley.”

ENDS

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