Government Invests $23M in 20 New Specialist Classrooms Across Nine Schools

This Government is delivering a further 20 new specialist classrooms across nine schools, giving students the support they need, Education Minister Erica Stanford says.

This $23 million investment brings the government’s total investment in specialist education infrastructure to more than $317 million, helping students with high and complex learning support needs access environments built for their needs.

Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and succeed in a classroom that supports them. For decades, while adults have argued about inclusion, children with high and complex needs have been waiting for action. This Government has drawn a line in the sand: inclusion is choice, and special education is a vital part of the schooling network, providing options for families, Ms Stanford says.

In total, the $317 million funded delivers: 142 new specialist classrooms Three new specialist schools – in Drury, Palmerston North and Gisborne – the first built in New Zealand in nearly 50 years Comprehensive redevelopments at six existing specialist schools Demand for specialist learning environments continues to grow – these projects will help ensure parents have choice and students can access the support they need throughout their education journey, Ms Stanford says.

Note to editors: Schools receiving additional specialist classrooms: Hamilton North School will receive four new classrooms (at the base special school).

Tāmaki College will receive two specialist classrooms, plus another two satellite classrooms for Sommerville School (the base special school).

Te Aroha College will receive two satellite classrooms for Goldfields School (the base special school).

Fairfield Intermediate will receive two satellite classrooms for Patricia Avenue School (the base special school).

Mt Eden Normal School will receive two satellite classrooms for Central Auckland Specialist School (the base special school).

Royal Oak Intermediate will receive two satellite classrooms for Central Auckland Specialist School (the base special school).

Kaitaia College will receive one satellite classroom for Blomfield Special School and Resource Centre (the base special school).

Nga Iwi School will receive two satellite classrooms for Sir Keith Park School (the base special school).

Green Bay Primary School will receive one satellite classroom for Oaklynn Special School (the base special school).

Definitions Base Special School Classrooms – classrooms that are on the base site of a special school.

Satellite Classrooms – associated with a base special school, but located on the site of another school.