$171.6m boost for schools' operational funding in budget

Education Minister Chris Carter talks with students. Photo / Greg Bowker

Tomorrow's budget will include a 5 per cent boost to schools' operational funding over four years to help them meet day-to-day running costs and provide computer technology.

Education Minister Chris Carter said the $171.6 million increase spread over the four year period included $65.3 million to help schools meet the costs of Information Communication Technology (ICT).

The money would also help purchase a wide range of other resources such as library books and pay support staff.

Mr Carter said the increase to the operations grant was the biggest since 2001.

The Government's total investment in schools' operational funding was $4.7 billion over the next four years.

A funding review in 2006 found schools had cost pressures around ICT and support staff. Sector representatives had significant input into the review.

"All up over the past three years operational funding under the Labour-led government has risen every year and since 1999/2000, over 40 per cent and when that's adjusted for inflation, the figure is close to 20 per cent," Mr Carter said.

- NZPA