Supporting Your Child's Learning Journey
At Te Kura Whaiora ki te Tonga/Southern Health School, we understand that you may have questions about how our services work and what to expect. Here are answers to some of the most common queries from families and schools.
General Questions
Are we a state school?
Yes, Te Kura Whaiora ki te Tonga/Southern Health School is a state-funded school, and our services are free for all eligible students.
Does Te Kura Whaiora ki te Tonga/Southern Health School become my child’s only school?
No, your child will remain enrolled at their regular school and return there as soon as they are well enough.
What if my child does not have a school?
In such cases, the Ministry of Education may approve a Section 37 Agreement to support your child’s educational needs.
Will my child gain qualifications?
Absolutely. Our students have access to NCEA qualifications and other learning resources to ensure their academic progress.
What is an ILP?
An Individual Learning Plan (ILP) is tailored to support your child’s learning while they are unable to attend their regular school. The ILP is developed collaboratively with parents, teachers, medical teams, and the regular school.
Eligibility and Duration
How long can my child stay on the Health School roll?
Your child can remain enrolled until their medical specialist confirms they are well enough to return to their regular school. A medical certificate is required every 15 weeks to verify their ongoing need for support.
Why does a specialist need to sign my child’s Medical Certificate?
A specialist ensures your child is receiving the necessary care for recovery, allowing them to return to school as soon as possible. This also helps us plan the appropriate support during their time with us.
Teaching and Learning
How often will my child be taught?
This depends on your child’s medical condition and location. Teaching schedules are flexible and will be discussed with you during the initial meeting.
Where will my child be taught?
Our teachers provide education in a range of settings, including hospitals, community classrooms, homes, or even the regular school. Your child’s specific teaching location will be confirmed during the planning process.
For Schools
Will our school lose funding if a student is taught by Southern Health School?
No, the student remains on your school’s roll, and funding stays with your school. We work closely with your school to ensure continuity of learning, including handover meetings where possible.
If you have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to support your child’s learning every step of the way.
