Minister condemns state school fee demands

Education Minister Trevor Mallard has condemned state schools that demand parents pay fees.

National's education spokesman Bill English yesterday continued his campaign against the $500 million being demanded from parents or through general fundraising for their children's education.

"Does government policy endorse or not the activities of Western Springs College, who have sent out to parents an invoice that says: 'This statement is issued to let you know just how much your daughter owes', and lists school donation $180.

"Does the Government endorse this sort of practice or not?" Mr English asked.

Mr Mallard replied: "No ... in fact, I condemn it."

Green MP Metiria Turei said there had been reports that some schools were making students pick up rubbish to "work off" unpaid fees.

Mr English also told MPs that Hillcrest High School in Hamilton was demanding that school fees of $160 be paid and that if the Government opposed the practice, what did Mr Mallard intend doing about it.

Mr Mallard said officials would be talking to the schools.

"I will work with the ministry to instruct the school of their rights."

He rejected claims that schools relied on school fees.

Schools could require parents to pay for materials used in their children's education, or for direct costs such as going on trips.

Schools could ask for donations, but they could not demand payment, Mr Mallard's spokeswoman said.

Those laws did not apply to private or integrated schools.

Mr English said in a statement that schools had better watch out because Mr Mallard was "coming after them".

"If Mr Mallard cracks down on the compulsory payment of fees, parents will be left to sell even more raffle tickets and hold even more cake stalls," Mr English said.

"Labour's policy on school fees is a mess. While the minister says he is opposed to state schools charging, he won't do anything about the financial pressure that has left schools in a position where they have no choice," Mr English said.

"In the meantime, Mr Mallard is planning to blame the schools."

- NZPA