Should schools stop asking parents for donations?
Hi neighbours - it was introduced to reduce the "significant financial pressure" on Kiwi families, but so far only about one in four eligible schools have signed up to the Government scheme to replace voluntary donations.
Under the draft Education Amendment Bill, decile 1-7 state and state-integrated schools can opt to receive a payment of $150 per student, per year if they agree not to ask parents or caregivers for donations.
But as of last week, with just over a month to go until boards of trustees need to register, only 471 out of 1749 schools had told the Ministry of Education that they intend to sign up to the initiative.
In Canterbury, Shirley Boys' High School has rejected the discretionary grants, with headmaster John Laurenson saying its co-curriculum programme "would have to cease" if it took up the Government's offer.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
.
Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
-
84.8% Yes
-
13.8% No
-
1.4% Other - I'll share below
Property to be sold/rented or rooms to be rented
@followers @highlight @everyone #Christchurch Real Estate
Bigger than normal-
Outright purchase /Rent to own Option available/Immediate on Rent
3/163 Bordesley Street, Philipstown, Christchurch City, Canterbury Price by negotiation
Rent NZD 550/Week plus rent in advance +Bond etc
Rent to Own option available
Details
2 Beds
1 Bath
1 Living area
84/86 m² Floor
106m² Land
Other Features
Ample of storage as feedback received from Viewers
1 Separate toilet
1 Off-street parking + Carport in Inside common space
contact for viewing apartment plus price Negotiation 021 446 384
Open Home on request please contact Dilip- 021 446 384
www.trademe.co.nz...
Rent to own: The first-time buyers guide | Trade Me
www.trademe.co.nz...