Raising Concerns
This section provides information for parents and whānau when raising concerns with schools and kura, or with an early learning service.
Raising concerns in a school, or kura
If you are worried about something at school or kura, it is usually best to start by talking with your child’s teacher or another school leader. Strong relationships between schools, parents and caregivers make a real difference. Raising concerns early can help everyone understand what is happening and work together on the best way to support your child.
Try to keep the conversation calm, respectful, and focused on what will help your child. You do not need to have all the answers before you talk to the school. It is okay to ask questions, share what you have noticed, and hear the school’s view.
Ways to start the conversation
“I’ve noticed something that has been worrying me, and I wanted to talk it through with you.”
“My child has been saying this at home, and I’d like to understand what you are seeing at school.”
“I’ve heard something, but I know I may not have the full picture. Can you help me understand what is happening?”
“I’m interested in how the school approaches this.”
“What do you think would be the best next step for my child?”
If you are still concerned after the conversation, you can ask what the next step is, who else you can talk to, or how the school’s concerns and complaints process works. This will also be on their school website, on display in the school office, or you can ask reception staff to send it to you.
Look at the Ministry of Education website. Their Parent Portal has some FAQ and useful guidance for concerned parents and caregivers
If you still need help
If you have talked to the school and the issue has not been resolved, there are other options.
For most school concerns, the next step is to follow the school’s complaints process. This may mean putting your concern in writing to the school board. The school’s complaints policy should explain how to do this and what happens next. If you are not happy with the school’s response, you can contact your local Ministry office for support.
If your concern is about a teacher’s conduct or competence, you can contact the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand. The Teaching Council explains when and how to make a report or complaint about a teacher.
You can also contact your local Ministry of Education office. The Ministry’s regional offices are the first point of contact for schools, parents, learning support, and the wider community.
Useful links
Raising concerns in an ECE or Kōhungahunga
If you have a concern about an early learning service or kōhungahunga, it is usually best to raise it with the service first. Strong relationships between services, parents and whānau help create positive outcomes for children. Raising concerns early can help everyone understand the issue and work together to find a solution.
You can also contact ERO if you have concerns. We have written some information for parents and whānau to help guide your next steps which you can find here.
Remember if you have a serious concern about the immediate health, safety or wellbeing of children or mokopuna to call emergency services on 111 and follow their instructions.
Raising a concern or complaint about a private school or school hostel
If you have concerns or would like to make a complaint about a private school or school hostel, you should first raise the matter with the school or hostel management.
Private schools are required to have child protection policies that comply with the Children’s Act 2014. School hostels are also required to have complaints procedures under the Education (Hostels) Regulations 2005.
If you remain concerned after raising the matter with the school or hostel, or would like further information, you can contact ERO at info@ero.govt.nz