A group of Wanaka parents has started a petition lobbying for year 7 and 8 students to remain at Wanaka Primary School.

The group, Parents for Recapitation, say there is support for its proposal to keep students from entering Mount Aspiring College (MAC) until year 9.

Wanaka Primary School (WPS) surveyed its school community earlier this year after being approached by parents about recapitation, and found that 85 per cent of respondents were in favour.

The WPS held information and question sessions on the issue, facilitated by board of trustees chair Andrew Howard, in June, despite the Ministry of Education advising against consultation.

Read more: Consultation planned re Year 7-8 students staying at primary school

“The ministry did not believe we should be talking to our community about this but the board felt strongly that we should not ignore our parents and we should work to understand their aspirations for education in our region,” Andrew said. 

Neuroscience educator Nathan Wallis advocates for a year 8/9 transition to high school. PHOTO: Supplied

Issues to be worked through around recapitation include primary schools having the physical capacity, the implications for Mount Aspiring College (which takes year 7-13 students), and what is best for children’s development, he said.

Now Parents for Recapitation is petitioning for recapitation at WPS.

The petition was initially to be signed by Monday August 23, but there is now no deadline.

“Signing this petition will support our submission to the Ministry of Education in favour of recapitation,” the group said. 

The group said there is evidence children are showing instances of high levels of anxiety in their pre-teens due to exposure to drugs, vaping, sexual activity and bullying in the high school environment.

“At ages 10-13 these situations may be difficult to understand but by ages 13+ children have more advanced tools to better navigate these situations,” the group said.

Neuroscience educator Nathan Wallis also advocates for a year 8/9 transition to high school.