About charter schools

Information about how charter schools | kura hourua will differ from state schools and examples of charter school models overseas.

About charter schools | kura hourua

Charter schools are a new type of state-funded school operated under a contract between the Crown and a sponsor (an organisation or business approved by the independent Charter School Authorisation Board).

Sponsors will have greater flexibility in teaching, curriculum, governance, hours and days of operation, and funding, with the aim of achieving greater innovation in learning.

In exchange for greater flexibility, they are subject to increased oversight and accountability.

Each sponsor enters into a contract with the Charter School Agency that sets out its targets for student achievement and outlines the character of the school (for example, reflecting a cultural community, religious, sporting, extension, military). A charter school’s character may not be explicit especially if the charter is a converting state school.

If a sponsor fails to meet its targets, its contract can be terminated or other interventions used.

With the exception of specialist schools, all state and state-integrated schools are eligible to apply to become charter schools.

Charter schools must accept all eligible students to enrol, unless oversubscribed.

The name charter schools | kura hourua signifies the partnership between charter school operators and the government, and between charter schools and their communities. 'Waka hourua' means 'double-hulled canoe', which served as an inspiration for the name Kura Hourua.

They can be new schools or state and state-integrated schools can convert to become a charter school.

The Government intends that the first charter schools will be able to open in Term 1 2025.

Charter schools legislation

The Education and Training Amendment Act 2024 came into force in October this year. The Act sets out the framework on how charter schools will be set up, operate, and be monitored. This includes the establishment of the Authorisation Board. 

Indicative 2024 key dates  

June: Legislation is introduced to Parliament.

July: Call for applications opens.

August: Call for applications closes.

October: Legislation passes: The Education and Training Amendment Act 2024  

October: The Authorisation Board is appointed.

October: The Authorisation Board approves charter school sponsors.

November: Contracts are negotiated between the Charter School Agency and sponsors.

Term 1 2025: Target date for opening the first charter schools.

Contact us

If you would like to be kept up to date when more information is available, please email info@charterschools.govt.nz