The government has moved a step closer to officially ending both the charter schools model and national standards in reading, writing and maths.
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Legislation unwinding the former National-led government's policies passed its first reading by 63 votes to 57 in Parliament this evening.
Education Minister Chris Hipkins said both schemes were driven by ideology, rather than evidence.
The bill would prevent anyone from opening further charter schools in future.
Existing charter schools would continue, until their contract expired or was terminated.
Mr Hipkins said operators who wished to stay open could apply to become another form of school - such as a designated character school.
