Jeremy Tauri: Invest in schools

Education is one of the most important things to invest in.

We hear a lot at the moment about how Aucklanders are moving out of the big city to smaller regions with more affordable houses, easier commutes and other lifestyle benefits.

As regional property prices and regional economies start to benefit from this so-called "halo effect", many are starting to look closely at what they have to offer people moving to the region.

One of the key factors for a lot of families when making the decision is the schooling available. Are schools ready and resourced to meet their expectations?

If not, how can local and central government, community and businesses assist to ensure that there are equal opportunities for schools and in schools when this is a decision for relocation. If you want to find out and connect with schools, all around the country prizegivings are taking place - get along and see what the schools are doing.

I attended a couple of senior school prizegivings in our area last week. It's something I'm not accustomed to. Our son Liam is only 16 months old so we have a few years before he is even at school and my last prizegiving was more than 20 years ago. During the presentations I wondered how Liam's schooling future might turn out for him and help him turn out. It's amazing how those things only a parent would ponder can trigger thinking processes about things you can't control.

Has much changed in schools? It was hard to tell during the few hours I was at prizegiving. Most of it seemed familiar but Form 7 is now Year 13, tidy facial hair is allowed, and - amazingly, even though I expected it - not a selfie or phone was seen during proceedings.

What I was reminded of is that schools have different needs and deal with resourcing differently.

If you are inclined then perhaps it's worth considering assisting your local schools by finding what their needs are.