Proposal on the future of Health Camp Schools

The Ministry of Education is seeking submissions from boards of trustees, educational organisations, and other interested parties, about the possible closure of five health camp schools and the proposal for a new model of education provision for students attending five Health Camp Schools.

The Government is committed to continuing the health camp service, and to delivering the best possible education for children attending health camps.

The five health camps are:

• Northland Health Camp School, Whangarei
• Pakuranga Health Camp School, Auckand
• Otaki Health Camp School, Otaki
• Glenelg Health Camp School, Christchurch
• Health Camp School Otago-Southland, Roxburgh

The Health Camp Schools Review

In 2008, a review of the health camp schools highlighted a range of issues including challenges with the transition of students in and out of the health camp schools, an inconsistent approach between the camps and the schools, and difficulties in coping with children with complex social and behavioural needs.

A copy of the Health Camp Schools Review report is available below.

The review identified the value of having one organisation providing services to children, their families and whānau, within the health camps and their schools.  This model currently operates at Princess of Wales Health Camp in Rotorua, and the Gisborne Health Camp.

The Education Review Office (ERO) completed a report on the health camp schools in September 2008. A copy of the report is available from the ERO website.

Making a submission

The Minister has consulted with the boards of the health camp schools, and is now inviting submissions from individuals and organisations who wish to contribute to the process. Submissions will not be treated as a form of voting for or against the proposal, but will be summarised for the Minister and carefully considered before she makes a final decision regarding the future of health camp schools.

If you wish to make a submission to the Ministry on this proposal, please download the attached form, complete and return it to healthcamp.schools@minedu.govt.nz. You may also make submissions directly to this email address.