The board decided at a meeting on Monday to introduce the New Zealand Mental Health Foundation ''Mindfulness in Schools'' programme sometime next year, chairman Dylan Ditchfield said yesterday.
When it would be introduced would depend on when a facilitator could be found, but it was hoped it would begin in term one, he said.
Last week, about 90 parents attended a meeting to discuss the programme - a mind-focusing and meditation-type calming technique which supporters say will help the school's 147 pupils control their emotions, but which opponents say has Buddhist origins they do not want their children exposed to.
One parent, Stephen Gullick, who last week spoke out against the programme, said last night he was disappointed at the decision, but pleased the board had decided on an ''opt in'' rather than ''opt out'' option.
But as a result of the decision he was aware of families considering withdrawing their children from the school.
''I'll be considering all options for next year but it's a big decision to make so I won't be making a knee-jerk reaction.''
Given they lived in a rural area, there was not another school option.
''For some, it will create a logistical problem.''
Mr Ditchfield said the board had not made its decision lightly and had considered all the information, views, comments and concerns which had been brought to its attention in the seven months since the school first considered implementing the programme.
''[We] feel that now the decision has been made, the school and wider community can put this behind them, move on and be the positive and supportive community that it has always been.''
Opponents of the programme say mindfulness is one of the main practices of the Buddhist faith, but those involved with the programme piloted by the Mental Health Foundation in six schools say sessions are spiritual but non-religious.
