Have questions about The BUSY School, an alternative education offering and Charter School?
Find the answers in our Frequently Asked Questions below!
What is the difference between an alternative school and a Charter School?
In New Zealand, a charter school (also known as a partnership school or kura hourua) is a government-funded school that operates independently with extra freedom to set its own rules, while alternative education usually means specialised schools or placement programs for students who have struggled or dropped out of mainstream education.
The BUSY School is a Charter School and offers an alternative education for young people who need re-engaging with education to complete their schooling and find a career path.
Does it cost to attend The BUSY School?
No, there are no fees involved. As well, The BUSY School provide all text books and stationery – plus 2 x uniform shirts for each student. All campuses supply nutritious food for students to make their own morning tea and lunch.
Does The BUSY School only enrol Year 11, 12 and 13 students?
Yes, The BUSY School in New Zealand is for Year 11, 12 and 13 students only. Students must be completing Year 10 or equivalent at the time of their application.
Who can apply?
Applicants are typically between 15 – 19 years of age at the time of application and are completing Year 10 or equivalent. Each application is assessed individually and will be complemented by a face-to-face interview with the Campus Principal.
What kind of students do you enrol?
The BUSY School caters for students who have disengaged or are at risk of disengaging from their current schooling. This could be due to a variety of reasons including not fitting in or being bullied, experiencing anxiety or depression, not thriving in their current school, regular absences from their current school, etc.
What do we expect from our students at The BUSY School?
Students at The BUSY School are expected to maintain regular attendance. Mobile phones must be switched off during class time. We have zero tolerance to student use, possession, sale and distribution of alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs, and related instruments. The BUSY School also has zero tolerance to behaviours that violate the rights of others or put others or yourself at risk of harm.
If the student is already doing a vocational course, work placement / experience or a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship can they continue once they commence at our school?
Yes they can. We aim to progress 100% of our graduating students into employment or further education and training. If you are already on that path then we want to help you continue with it.
Are laptops needed?
Students are provided with laptops to use in class.
Who can refer a student to The BUSY School?
Students can be referred to The BUSY School by their parents/carers, by their current school, by referring agencies or they can refer themselves.
How do you apply for enrolment?
Applying is done online through: https://busy.school.kiwi/enrolment
If you need to talk to a staff member or have questions before applying, you can contact us via:
Email: enquiries@thebusyschool.org.nz
Phone: 0800 005 565
Or you can submit an enquiry here: https://thebusyschool.org.nz/en/contact/
Do students complete their NCEA?
The BUSY School offers an alternative schooling approach for disengaged students to assist them to work towards completing a National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) certificate Levels 1, 2 and 3 and continue into a career path or further education.
Where is The BUSY School Auckland located?
Our Auckland campus is located at:
Level 1, 75 Karangahape Road
Auckland 1010, New Zealand
