Fuel Crisis: Schools Prepare for Remote Learning as Unions Meet Ministry

Fuel Crisis Prompts Schools to Consider Remote Learning Options

Union bosses are scheduled to meet with Ministry of Education officials today to discuss potential contingency plans for schools should the escalating fuel crisis necessitate a shift to remote learning, according to sources familiar with the discussions.

Helen Hurst, Group General Manager for Operational Standards and Support at the Ministry of Education, stated the ministry is “undertaking business continuity planning for a range of scenarios so People can respond quickly to any changes to current settings.” Hurst confirmed that hybrid and distance learning models are being considered as options to maintain educational continuity if students are unable to attend school in person.

The discussions approach as petrol prices continue to climb across the country. Over the weekend, some Auckland suburbs saw prices reach $4 a litre, with the national average for unleaded 91 at $3.30 and unleaded 98 at $3.61, according to reports.

The government recently launched the “National Fuel Plan,” a tiered system mirroring the Covid alert level framework, designed to address varying degrees of fuel supply disruption. Currently, New Zealand is operating under Level 1, which focuses on government coordination with industry to mitigate potential issues.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has sought to reassure the public, stating that there is “no supply problem” and urging citizens not to “panic” over fuel levels.

But, the rising costs are already impacting schools, particularly in rural areas. According to reports, rural schools are experiencing cancellations from relief teachers and are anticipating the need to curtail extracurricular activities. “This is not a future risk; it is happening now,” said a representative from the education sector, who noted that classes are being merged and teachers are facing increased workloads.

Attendance is also reportedly declining as parents struggle to afford transportation costs. Concerns are growing that essential educational experiences, such as field trips to farms, marae, and museums, may be cancelled due to fuel constraints. “These are not extras, they are a core part of how we deliver a rich, localised curriculum,” one source stated.

The challenges are particularly acute in rural communities where students lack alternative transportation options. Schools rely heavily on buses and private vehicles for student transport, often involving long distances and multiple drop-offs.

Whereas there is “no strong appetite” to return to full remote learning, given the equity issues highlighted during the Covid-19 pandemic – including inconsistent access to devices and reliable internet – hybrid or partial attendance models may be considered if the situation worsens. Such models would require additional resourcing, clear guidance, and flexibility in curriculum expectations and reporting.

Chris Abercrombie, president of the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA), stated that schools are seeking clarification from the ministry regarding the implications of each level of the National Fuel Plan. “If we are going to move to online learning, what preparations has the Government made? Is there a clear timeframe for this to happen?” Abercrombie asked.

Massey University is also developing a contingency plan aligned with the government’s escalation framework, potentially including changes to teaching and learning and campus operations should the country move to Level 3.

Education Minister Erica Stanford has directed inquiries to the Ministry of Education.