ERO suspends school hostel after lack of evidence regulations were met

The Education Review Office has identified problems after suspending a Manawatū secondary school's hostel licence last week.

Boarders were sent home from Hato Pāora College, near Feilding, on Friday 6 November when the suspension was imposed by the Education Review Office (ERO), which is responsible for school hostels.

ERO said it made the decision because "it is contrary to the boarders' interests for the hostel to remain open", but didn't go into detail about the reasons.

Hato Pāora College also stayed largely silent - and hasn't responded to requests for comment - but has released some further information to parents at the state-integrated Catholic Māori boys' school.

In a memo obtained by RNZ, under "frequently asked questions", it said: "The Education Review Office suspended the hostel licence as we were unable to provide sufficient evidence that we were compliant with a large number of regulations."

It said the school had divided these into six themes - governance; premises and facilities; safety and wellbeing; safety and supervision; food, drink and health; and records and complaints.

It didn't go into detail about these.

"The kura did not expect the suspension, however, in retrospect, we acknowledge that we did not move as quickly as we should have to meet the requirements of ERO and we take responsibility for this."

In response to one question that asked what the school was doing about students feeling unsafe at night, it said policies, procedures and processes would be assessed.

Hato Pāora College has until 8 December to remedy the problems ERO identified.

It remains open and is offering classes, including online, to its roll of about 110 students. Exams are happening at the school, while students back home in other parts of the country are sitting them at alternative venues.

The memo to parents said the school was hopeful boarding would be available next year, and that all problems would be resolved.

"The kura are working with unfathomable dedication and humility, ensuring that we have expert support available to fully resolve the issues before students return in 2027."

It has also made personnel changes to its trust board, with new members bringing expertise in areas such as governance and health and safety.