New support for learners

More than 20 Franklin schools will have access to improved learning support from next year.

On September 5, Minister of Education Erica Stanford announced 101,000 more Year 1–8 students and their teachers across the country will benefit from the skills and support of a Learning Support Coordinator (LSC) working in their school next year.

Port Waikato MP Andrew Bayly said schools in the electorate will benefit from the decision.
“Some 21 schools in the Port Waikato electorate will receive access to an LSC over the next three years, including several of our small rural and isolated schools.”

Schools can check their staffing entitlements for 2026, 2027 and 2028 on the Ministry of Education’s website.

“Those schools receiving the extra support will be contacted directly by the Ministry. This investment means schools can identify and respond to student needs sooner, giving every child in Port Waikato [electorate] the support they need to achieve and thrive.”

From Term 1, 461 schools will have access to a new LSC staffing entitlement through the Government’s $192 million Budget 2025 investment to ensure all primary and intermediate schools have access to an LSC over the next three years.

Stanford said this reach will increase to almost 300,000 students across every primary and intermediate school by 2028.

LSCs support both staff and students, providing direct support in schools, working with neurodiverse students and those with additional learning needs, and helping schools and families to navigate additional specialist support where required.