Frequently Asked Questions

Who can affiliate to NZPTA?

Our affiliates are not limited to groups calling themselves a 'PTA' - you may be a parent group, a school support group, a Board of Trustees, or a Kindergarten committee. Any group that is strengthening the partnership between home and school (or centre) to improve children's education will benefit by belonging to NZPTA.

How do I start a parent group at our school or centre?

If there is a group of parents and teachers interested in forming a support group in your school/centre, you need to begin by getting together to discuss your objectives and a few basic rules for running the group. Here is a sample constitution that you can use as a starting point.

Can the Board or Principal say how our group's funds should be used?

Generally, the answer is 'no'. Parent groups are usually set up as separate financial entities with their own bank accounts. The group's funds are managed by an elected committee, in accordance with the constitution. The committee has the discretion to decide when and how much money is granted to the school, just like any other external grant organisation. Generally, funds will be granted for a specific item or project, rather than as an unspecified lump sum. In our guidelines for managing finances, we recommend using a grant application form to process all requests for funding. Ideally, the Board, Principal and parent group should all be working together in partnership to achieve common goals in the strategic plan.

How do we wind up our parent group?

If you think it is likely that your group is just going to be temporarily out of action, then 'going into recess' is the best option. However, if the school is being closed or merged, then you are likely to need to 'wind up' the group. Either way, there is a formal procedure to follow. More details can be found in our guidelines for going into recess/winding up.

What is the difference between the PTA and the BOT?

The PTA (parent group) is made up of parents who come together to support their children's education, with links to staff and BOT members. It is fairly informal and can choose it's own role in the school. The focus is usually on raising funds for special projects, facilitating communication between home and school, and supporting parents as full partners in their child's education. The BOT (Board of Trustees) is made up of parent representatives, staff members, and sometimes representatives of other groups (eg. students, Maori, Church, etc.). It is set up by the Government as a statutory body and has many regulations to comply with. The BOT has the job of setting the strategic direction for the school and making sure legal requirements are being met - this is called 'governance'. The BOT and PTA have complimentary roles within the school, so when an effective partnership is formed, it creates a win-win situation for both groups … and the students.