Fears over what Charter school legislation could mean for Maori students

Parliament passed a Bill this morning, allowing the set-up of the schools.

They can get Government funding, but don't have to follow a set curriculum - and aren't bound by the Treaty of Waitangi in the way public schools are.

NZEI President Mark Potter says that could affect cultural education.

He says any Maori child wanting to learn Te Reo Maori or Tikanga may not have the opportunity in a charter school.