A scholarship, Aspire, has been established for students from low to medium income families who would like to attend a private (not integrated) secondary school. Applications are to be sent to the Ministry of Education by 17 May 2010.
The scholarship is for $15,000 per year with up to $1,500 per year for course related costs. The scholarship does not cover boarding fees. There are 50 scholarships available for 2011 year 9 students and over 20 scholarships for 2011 year 10 students.
This is outrageous and it is at a time when schools are being told that there is no additional funding for anything. It is also appalling that it is being promoted by the Ministry of Education.
This scholarship is a way of enticing bright students from lower income homes away from state schools as you can be sure that they will not be taking the academically or behaviorally challenged.
This government has already increased private school funding by $35 million. I think it is vital that PPTA branches recommend that the National Executive expose this new initiative and fight to get it stopped. Sending large numbers of emails to the Minister of Education would also be helpful.
You can request futher information about Aspire from: aspire.scholarship@minedu.govt.nz
Let us do something about this issue. As a union we must stand up for Free, Quality State Education for all.
Adaire Hannah
Wellington High School PPTA Branch
Sunday, May 2, 2010
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