71150 (2024). Dr Lawrence Xu-Nan to the Minister of Education

71150 (2024). Dr Lawrence Xu-Nan to the Minister of Education: In response to Reply 67879 (2024), what evidence, if any, does the Minister have regarding considerations that whānau use in their decision to home educate their children?

Hon Erica Stanford: I am advised by the Ministry of Education (the Ministry) that there is some anecdotal information on the reasons parents or guardians make the decision to home educate their child, including: • Some feel they are better able to educate their child • Some feel that school hasn’t met their child’s needs • A perception that home education is an easier schooling option for their family • To combat the anxiety their child feels about going to school • Some desire a values-based education that New Zealand’s education system can’t provide. Please note, there is no requirement for parents or guardians to share their reasons or considerations to home educate with the Ministry.