67871 (2024). Dr Lawrence Xu-Nan to the Minister for Children

67871 (2024). Dr Lawrence Xu-Nan to the Minister for Children: With reference to the Minister of Education’s reply to 39605 (2024), is the Minister for Children concerned that there is no focus on wellbeing for children when issuing an exemption under Section 38 of the Education and Training Act 2020; if not, why?

Hon Karen Chhour: As Minister for Children, I am not responsible for Section 38 of the Education and Training Act 2020, and I note that this statutory test relates to a child being taught as regularly and as well as in a registered school. I do however expect that any child who is in the custody of Oranga Tamariki, including where an exemption is provided under Section 38 of the Education and Training Act 2020, to have regular visits from a social worker. This is one of the priorities I have set for Oranga Tamariki, to ensure the safety of children and young people in care. This will help ensure they have an opportunity to safely share any concerns they might have. As with any child, regardless of whether they are in care or whether they are subject to an exemption Section 38 of the Education and Training Act 2020, I would expect that any wellbeing concerns are raised through appropriate channel so they can be addressed.