The Contribution of the Presbyterian Church to Education in New Zealand

Abstract

This research concerns the influence of the Presbyterian Church on Education in New Zealand from 1840 to 1993 by making a systematic study of some of the most important aspects of education in which the Presbyterian Church has been involved. Each province is discussed in relation to the Presbyterian Church's involvement in education from 1840 to the implementation of the Education Act in 1877. Next, the question of religious instruction in schools, the consequent establishment of Church Schools and the relation of the Presbyterian Church to its Church Schools is examined. Finally, the Presbyterian Church's investment in Theological Education and the caring ministry of chaplains and residential halls are considered. The thesis maintains that the greatest influence has been in tertiary education, particularly in Otago. The Presbyterian Church in Otago had close links with the founding of Otago University, and from its founding until 1945 made a substantial monetary contribution towards the salaries of University chairs. When the direct interest in what the university histories call the Presbyterian Church Chairs ceased in 1945, the Presbyterian Church was able to put money from its Education Trust into other ways of assisting Otago University. The conclusion of the thesis is that the Presbyterian Church has, mainly through individual members, made a contribution in most areas of education. Some clearly defined principles about a good education system have been firmly held: some of these the Presbyterian Church has affirmed since the earliest days of settlement in New Zealand. The Presbyterian Church has made a firm commitment to a National System; to Religious Education in all areas of education; and seeks still to encourage a broad liberal education. While not questioning this commitment the thesis concludes that the Presbyterian Church needs to take educational issues more seriously if it is to continue to make a worthwhile contribution today, as great as it made in the founding days of New Zealand. The thesis questions whether the commitment to do so is there.