10692 (2024). Dr Lawrence Xu-Nan to the Associate Minister of Education

10692 (2024). Dr Lawrence Xu-Nan to the Associate Minister of Education: As a result of the reforms to the Ka Ora, Ka Ako programme announced 8 May 2024, will any school staff member be required to supervise or take part in the preparing and/or distribution of the free school lunches; if so, why?

Hon David Seymour: As part of the alternative provision model, school staff may be required to support the preparation and supervision of food. The Ministry will work through an open tender process to source supplier(s) for the alternative provision model. The range of food on offer will depend on the supplier(s) selected, and this will inform what support may be required by schools. Schools will be able to select foods based on their preference, as well as facilities and capacity. The Ministry of Education will provide support to schools and kura on managing this in line with food safety requirements. This will help to make the programme more cost-effective.