School principals in Christchurch say they might not be able to implement the Government's national standards properly because of the February earthquake.
The Canterbury Primary Principals Association says teachers have their work cut out just trying to provide a normal classroom environment.
It says results for some children will be worse because of the quake.
But while the Government has decided to make allowances for NCEA results by Christchurch students this year, no leeway is being given to primary schools when it comes to implementing national standards.
Education Minister Anne Tolley says national standards are more important than ever for the students, many of whom will have missed weeks of learning.
She says schools will continue to receive all the support they need to implement the standards.
Primary Principals Association president John Bangma told Morning Report that while assessment such as national standards is important, children must feel safe and well first.
He said many schools are still focussed on dealing with traumatised chidlren and staff.
Mr Bangma said many principals feel they can't give their full atttention to implementing something like national standards, while dealing with other post-quake issues.
