Fri, 6 Aug 2004
Victoria University of Wellington and Wellington College of Education apply to merge
Education Minister Trevor Mallard and Associate Education (Tertiary Education) Minister Steve Maharey today announced
the start of consultation on the proposed merger of Wellington College of Education and Victoria University of
Wellington from 1 January 2005.
"Public submissions on the proposal are now invited. The proposal suggests that a merger would protect and enhance the
teacher education currently being provided by the two institutions. They entered into a strategic alliance in 2001 with
the view that they would eventually merge. Our government is committed to lifting the quality of teachers as high
quality teaching plays has a positive impact on how students perform at school," Trevor Mallard said.
Steve Maharey said that under the two institutions strategic alliance, the college disbanded its three year Bachelor of
Education in favour of a four year university degree such as a BSc, BCA, or BA with a Bachelor of Teaching. Those
programmes already have 308 students enrolled at Victoria, with college staff teaching the BTeach component.
"The college says it can't graduate world class teachers unless its students gain specialist subject knowledge, as well
as strong teaching skills and that only the university provides the concentration of specialist knowledge.
"A merger will also enable the college to extend its research capability significantly with the support of Victoria's
internationally distinguished researchers," Steve Maharey said.
An overview document has been prepared by the two institutions summarising the key features of the proposal. Copies may
be obtained from either institution or from their web sites www.vuw.ac.nz or www.wce.ac.nz.
Ministers hope to make a decision in October to minimise any uncertainty for staff and students. Submissions should be
received by the Tertiary Education Commission by 17 September 2004. They should be addressed to Ms Jennifer Robbins,
Manager, Sector Development, Tertiary Education Commission, PO Box 27-048, Wellington.
ENDS