School roll growth funding: Just 66% of applications approved

Detailed summary

New ministry figures show just 66% of applications for extraordinary roll-growth funding were approved in 2024 and 2025. In 2024, 89 from 134 applications were approved, while 48…

Wellington's Mount Cook School principal Adrianne McAllister said the Ministry needs more strategic planning for growth. Photo / Hannah Peters

Schools are increasingly being turned down for help accommodating growing student rolls, as questions mount over the Ministry of Education’s planning for rising enrolments.

New ministry figures show just 66% of applications for extraordinary roll-growth funding were approved in 2024 and 2025.

In 2024, 89 from 134 applications were approved, while 48 of 2025’s 72 got the green light.

The Ministry of Education said the number of applications has fluctuated over the years, with a surge in migration contributing to increased demand.

It says there’s less need for applications when National Education Network Plan forecasts are accurate.

The ministry expects applications to decline this year, pointing to lower birthrates, declining rolls and improved accuracy in its school roll forecasts.

But it comes as some schools struggle to find enough classroom space, with growing rolls forcing them to resort to temporary and makeshift teaching areas.

Wellington’s Mt Cook School has been operating above capacity for two years and is now about 60 students over its intended roll.

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