6. MOANA MACKEY (Labour) Link to this
to the Minister of Education
What reports has he received on the success of the 20 hours’ free early childhood education policy?
Hon CHRIS CARTER (Minister of Education) Link to this
I have had wonderful news. The latest figures on the uptake of the 20 free hours of early childhood education show that after just 4 months of the scheme’s operation, all kindergartens in New Zealand are now offering the free hours. Eighty-three percent of eligible 3 and 4-year-olds are now getting their free hours, and 72 percent of teacher-led services are offering the policy. There has been a 13 percent increase in enrolled children since the policy began in July. It is a great success.
I have seen very interesting reports. Some members of the National Party vow they would end this historic and visionary policy. Paula Bennett told Radio New Zealand News on 22 June that National would not offer the policy and that National members vowed not to continue it if they won the next election. However, her leader, John Key, told Television One news on 26 March: “We want these young kids to be able to have their 20 free hours.” Almost 77,000 children are currently benefiting from this policy. Just what is National’s policy, and could National be planning to stop the long-term educational gains our young students are enjoying?
Paula BennettDoes the Minister support playcentres as a quality early childhood option; if so, how does he respond to Coromandel Playcentre, which may now close because enrolments have dropped by 50 percent because it is not included in the Government’s policy; and is parental involvement not recognised as being important by this Government?
Parental involvement is valued by this Government, but this policy is available to teacher-led centres. I remind the House that 77,000 children are now getting their 20 free hours. That was an interesting question from a member who says she wants to abolish the scheme. But she is arguing for a centre to get into it. That does seem to be rather confusing.