Cluster support groups will be established to lead community engagement for education communities where significant change is indicated. This is predominantly within the Consolidate and Rejuvenate categories.

Along with representatives from each state school, these support groups will also reflect other provision from within the education community, including early childhood education.

These groups will provide oversight of the Engagement and consultation process within their cluster.

The Ministry of Education will support these groups in providing information to their communities and gathering feedback to identify the preferred way forward.

The cluster support groups will not replace boards of trustees, who will formally consult with their communities where closures or mergers are indicated.