A private school is initially only provisionally registered. Once the school is fully registered, it receives some government funding.
Section 214 of the Education and Training Act 2020 – New Zealand Legislation
Criteria for registration#
If you usually provide tuition for 9 or more students aged between 5 and 16 years old, you must register as a private school. ERO must be satisfied that your premises, staffing, equipment and curriculum are suitable.
The criteria for registration are outlined in schedule 7 of the Education and Training Act 2020.
Schedule 7 Private schools of the Education and Training Act 2020 – New Zealand Legislation
Apply to register a private school#
To register your school or proposed school, visit ERO's website.
Private school registration – ERO
If you meet the criteria, ERO will:
- provisionally register your school
- inspect the school within 12 months
- then decide whether the school is suitable for full registration.
ERO have more detailed information about registering a private school.
Private school property#
The school manager is responsible for all property maintenance and modifications.
The school must comply with all building legislation including:
- the Building Act 2004
- Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.
If your school moves to a different property or location, you must let ERO know so they can arrange a property inspection etc. Similarly, if your school changes from single sex to co-educational (or vice versa), ERO should be informed.
