Hekia Parata came hurtling back down to Earth, suffering the indignity of Key trampling all over her portfolio.

Up to 5000 students will be affected by the National-led Government's cut to student allowances.

A school uniform supplier says her company was asked to supply two vans to a college in order to get their business. 'Sweeteners' given to schools by suppliers ranged from scholarships to $30K worth of sports gear.

The Government wants charter schools despite a damning study which says they may do more harm than good.