However, they need to be considered in the context of the broader philosophy of education, as expressed in other sections of the Act. The main references are:

Right to education

Section 33 of the Act states that all New Zealanders are entitled to free enrolment and free education at any state school from the age of five until the end of the year in which they turn 19. This is subject to provisions arising from approved enrolment schemes and integration agreements.

Education and Training Act 2020, Section 33 – New Zealand Legislation

National education guidelines

Section 60A of the Education Act 1989 empowers the Minister of Education to publish statements of desirable achievements by the school system (National Education Goals) and desirable principles of conduct or administration (National Administration Guidelines). Boards of state schools are required to help all students realise their full potential by providing appropriate learning programmes and addressing barriers to learning and individual needs while respecting cultural differences.

Education Act 1989, Section 60A – New Zealand Legislation

Right to counselling

Section 103 requires all principals of state schools to take all reasonable steps to ensure that all students get good guidance and counselling.

Education and Training Act 2020, Section 103 – New Zealand Legislation

Obligation to parents

Section 103 requires all principals of state schools to take all reasonable steps to ensure that parents are told of matters which, in the principal’s opinion, are preventing or slowing the student’s progress through school or are harming the student’s relationships with teachers or other students.

Education and Training Act 2020, Section 103 – New Zealand Legislation