Education Ministry looks into leadership and governance issues at Horowhenua College

The Investigation

The Ministry of Education is currently looking into issues raised at Horowhenua College located in the lower North Island.

The Complaints

More than twelve staff members and local community members sent a letter to both the ministry and the Teaching Council on September 16. The letter points out major issues regarding leadership and governance at the school.

Board and Council Response

Juliana Mansvelt, who serves as the presiding board member for Horowhenua College, stated the school did not receive formal complaints directly. She added that the board takes its duty to provide a safe workplace and govern well very seriously, and that they are working alongside the ministry. Teaching Council chair Patrick Walsh confirmed receiving the letter, noting that matters outside the council's scope are passed to the right agency like the ministry.

Ministry Actions

Te Rangipai Renata, the acting director of education for Greater Wellington, confirmed that ministry staff met with the college principal and the board's presiding member on Wednesday to assess the provided information and establish the facts.