Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller is encouraging submissions from the local community after the National government announced an overhaul of the country's Education Act for the first time in 26 years.

'The Education Act informs the direction of New Zealand's education,” says Todd. 'This update to the Act will make a real difference to the schooling of Kiwi kids.

Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller. Photo: File.

'The current Act is 26 years old and focusses heavily on administration and compliance. Here is an opportunity to redesign the Act to centre on student achievement in the 21st century.”

The proposed update draws on the recommendations of the Taskforce on Regulations Affecting School Performance which reported in 2014 that the Act focused on structures and administration.

'We are fortunate to have many effective teachers and learning institutions in our electorate,” says Todd.

'I hope the community will have their say during this consultation process so we may continue local educational success.”

The consultation process is underway and runs until December 14.

Further information about the consultation and how to make submissions can be found at: www.education.govt.nz/education-act-update