Charter schools | Kura hourua model
Information about how charter schools | kura hourua will differ from state schools, examples of charter school models overseas and the roles of agencies and entities who will be supporting the implementation of the charter school model.
About charter schools | kura hourua
Charter schools are state-funded but are operated by a 'sponsor’ (a body under contract with the Crown).
Sponsors will have greater flexibility in teaching, curriculum, governance, hours and days of operation, and funding, with the aim of achieving greater innovation in learning.
In exchange for greater flexibility, they are subject to increased oversight and accountability.
Each sponsor enters into a contract with the Crown that sets out its targets for student achievement and outlines the character of the school (for example, cultural, religious, military). A charter school’s character may not be explicit especially if the charter is a converting state school.
If a sponsor fails to meet its targets, its contract can be terminated or other interventions used.
Charter schools can be new schools. All state and state-integrated schools except specialist schools are also eligible to apply to become charter schools.
Charter schools must accept all eligible students to enrol, unless oversubscribed.
The name "charter schools | kura hourua" signifies the partnership between charter school operators and the government, and between charter schools and their communities. 'Waka hourua' means "double-hulled canoe", which served as an inspiration for the name Kura Hourua.
The Government intends that the first charter schools will be able to open in Term 1 2025.
See the Associate Minister of Education’s release on the Beehive website.
Charter schools to lift educational outcomes - Beehive(external link)
Charter Schools legislation
The Bill was introduced on 24 June 2024.
Education and Training Amendment Bill – New Zealand Legislation(external link)
Subject to Parliament’s agreement, we expect the Bill to be passed by late September.
Key dates
Exact dates for some items are to be finalised.
June 2024: Legislation is introduced to Parliament.
July 2024: Applications open.
September 2024: Subject to Parliament passing it, the Education and Training Amendment Bill enacted.
September-October 2024: Authorisation Board selects sponsors from applications.
October–November 2024: Contracts finalised.
Term 1 2025: Target date for opening the first charter schools.
More information
If you would like to be kept up to date when more information is available, email charter.schools@education.govt.nz.
Information for parents and whānau
Information for principals, teachers and school staff
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