The Education Review Office (ERO) recently published its report, “Built in, Not Bolted On: Evaluation of Education at Specialist Day Schools,” showcasing the exceptional quality of education provided by specialist day schools across New Zealand. Covering all 27 specialist schools, the report demonstrates the vital role these schools play in supporting children with high needs. The ERO praised these schools for their personalised, inclusive programs that integrate therapies directly into classrooms, allowing students to benefit from a uniquely supportive and skilled educational environment. Many of these schools, members of SEPAnz, were highlighted for the positive impact they have on students and their families.
A core finding of the report centers on the distinction between specialist schools with “built-in” supports and mainstream schools where supports are “bolted on” as additional services. The “built-in” approach of specialist schools, with dedicated resources and programs, allows them to cater seamlessly to high-needs students, leading to significantly better student and parental satisfaction. While 85% of parents of students in specialist schools reported satisfaction with their child’s educational experience, the report found lower satisfaction rates for students in mainstream settings where support was added as needed rather than fully integrated. This difference reinforces the need and value of dedicated specialist day schools across Aotearoa.
The report also noted a significant increase in demand for specialist education, with growing waitlists in major regions, especially for children with very high needs. The ERO calls for a coordinated national response to expand access and enhance facilities to meet students’ complex requirements. This evaluation highlights the critical contribution of specialist schools in fostering student growth, independence, and confidence.
Specialist Schools NZ 