Hunt for cash key to school survival

Fernridge School has come in for some criticism for its fundraising Boar Hunt held last weekend.

A photo we ran of a young girl dragging a deer carcass was particularly affronting for some readers.

However, the reality is schools have to go to increasing lengths to drive community participation and fundraise for their operations. You may not like the idea of hunting, or of children hunting in particular, but for Fernridge the event reaches a wide sector of the community and raises much-needed funds.

Other local schools run elaborate and increasingly professional events to capture the community's interest and raise money. Kuranui College principal Geoff Shepherd recently spoke out about the plan it would be rolling out over the next three years to raise more money from the community.

It seems the reality of running a school, big or small, is that you're not just an educator but a fundraiser, marketer and event manager to boot.

And from that point of view, if nothing else, Fernridge's Boar Hunt seems to do a pretty good job.

Thanks to all our letter-writers for the lively debate in our letters-to-the-editor column recently.

Due to high numbers of letters we have a few days' backlog, so your letters may not make it into print as quickly as they normally would. It's great to have your feedback on our stories and any other issues you have on your mind - keep it coming.

Remember you can also send us your comments by text message - text to 021 241 4568, with WTA at the start of your message. You can also comment on our stories online at times-age.co.nz (and while you're online, let us know your thoughts on our new-look website).

When you're voicing your views through these forums, please bear in mind that while we appreciate and are happy to host robust debate, we'd prefer you to stick to the issues, rather than making personal attacks.