Collegiate to be integrated into state system

Wanganui Collegiate School has gained integration into the state network of schools.

Education Minister Hekia Parata anounced the decision today.

"This has been a difficult and drawn out process,'' Ms Parata said.

"Wanganui Collegiate has been working towards integration for the last two years and the Wanganui Collegiate community will be pleased to see a successful outcome.''

Ms Parata said that as one of New Zealand's oldest schools, Wanganui Collegiate held an iconic place in the history of education in New Zealand. Integrating the school would ensure it not only continued to be a vibrant part of the Wanganui community, but also that a Collegiate education was available to a wider number of students.

"I trust that past students and families will support Wanganui Collegiate to ensure a strong future."

From January next year, Wanganui Collegiate will be a part of the state schooling network.   It will continue to offer the same quality education that it is known for, but will have much reduced fees.   As an integrated school, the only compulsory fees will be attendance dues. Wanganui Collegiate will also be responsible for its properties.

The school will offer day places, weekly boarding places, and full boarding places, as well as offering opportunities to a number of international students.

Ms Parata said the school was one of the top performing in the Wanganui region and she expected it to share its expertise and facilities with other schools in the area.

Wanganui Collegiate School was established in 1852 following a gift of Crown land for a school in Wanganui.