How charter schools are run

Charter schools are public schools, but they are run by a sponsor instead of a school board. The sponsor signs a contract with the Crown to run the school.

The role of the sponsor

Charter schools are run by a sponsor, not by a school board.

The sponsor is a separate legal entity such as a charitable trust, company, iwi organisation, or education provider.

The sponsor is responsible for:

• Governance and strategic direction
• Employing staff
• Managing finances and property
• Setting school policies and systems
• Delivering on the outcomes in their contract

The sponsor is given flexibility so they can do things differently and deliver strong results for students. In return, sponsors must meet clear expectations.

The charter school contract

Every charter school operates under a formal contract. The contract sets out:

• The school’s educational approach and target student group
• Attendance, achievement, and wellbeing outcomes
• Performance measures and reporting requirements
• Funding arrangements
• Intervention and termination conditions

Learn more about charter school contracts 

Learn more about how charter schools’ performance is monitored