Most schools to remain closed

8:22 pm on 27 February 2011

Schools in Christchurch city and many in surrounding areas will remain closed on Monday following the earthquake.

The Ministry of Education had given schools and early childhood services in Waimakariri and Selwyn the all clear to reopen on Monday, depending on the state of buildings and availability of teachers.

The principal of Ashgrove School in Rangiora, Christine Houia, says her school suffered relatively superficial damage but there are other issues to consider, like teacher numbers and traumatised pupils, and the school may not open before Wednesday.

Denise Torrey of the Canterbury Primary Principal's Association says she's worried about staffing.

She says teachers are among those who've left Christchurch, although teaching support has been offered from around the country.