Beginning of the end for the schools we know?

There is risk and opportunity in a radical education shakeup signalled in Parliament. Education Minister Hekia Parata describes the move, towards home-based, online learning, as the biggest update in nearly 30 years.

As such, it needs to be given appropriate consideration.

But the way Parata’s Education (Update) Amendment Bill came out of nowhere this week raises immediate concerns, along with a whole raft of questions.

The proposal highlights the need for digital competency in a rapidly evolving online world.

But is Parata’s proposal the best way to deliver it? Where did the idea come from? Where might it lead? Who is pushing it? Who stands to gain – and lose – the most from it?

At the beginning of human development, educating the young was the primary responsibility of parents.

As society evolved it became obvious educating in groups based on age or competencies was the most efficient way to develop appropriate skills.

Parata’s proposal allows a return to this parent-based model – assisted by approved, regulated, online education providers.

For some children, especially the more gifted with parents fully involved in the process, the move might well bring benefits. The focus will be on other extremes.

Members of some deeply conservative religious or ethnic communities already favour home-schooling.

Some still promote ideas such as suppressing female education, corporal punishment or doctrinaire instruction.

Then there are the feral parents who just want to drop out of the system, and drag their offspring with them.

Parata talks of allowing more options for students – and parents – to choose the most suitable form of education.

How will she ensure the checks and balances are sufficiently robust to protect vulnerable youngsters from abuse?

The internet is already a significant classroom tool. Suitable private providers could deliver some of the curriculum online – particularly around advanced digital skills.

But Parata’s reform goes a significant step further.

School is not just about fact- learning. It is where considerable social growth takes place. We learn from our teachers.

We also learn from interaction with peers.

Providing a valid education is among our greatest societal obligations. The system is not to be tinkered with lightly.

Parata has launched a most vital discussion.

But will she hear the response?