Principal determined to fight for school's survival

7:11 pm on 11 July 2011

The principal of a Christchurch high school is giving the Government notice he will fight to keep it open.

The Government says Shirley Boys' High School can return to its earthquake-damaged site, but only for two years.

Principal John Laurenson worries that operating out of makeshift buildings may drag on for longer than that, harming the popularity of his school.

Mr Laurenson says he has started gathering intellectual and financial support for the school, so it can continue to be an education force in the city.

Education Minister Anne Tolley has said it is too early to know if the two-year time limit set by the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority might be extended.

However, Mrs Tolley says it will be several years before it is clear where Christchurch families are living and going to school.

Shirley Boys' High will return to its home site in about six weeks.