Hundreds of early childhood teachers to call on MPs to protect their sector

Hundreds of early childhood kaiako (teachers) and kaimahi (staff) are expected to meet around Aotearoa this week, calling on their MPs and communities to help protect their sector from future Government cuts and further deregulation.

Hosted and run by NZEI Te Riu Roa members, the union meetings are open to community and will address key concerns such as the importance of keeping the pay parity scheme for early childhood teachers.

Members will ask MPs to pledge to protect, value, and respect the mahi of all those who work in early childhood and the tamariki they care for.

Early childhood kaiako and kaimahi have repeatedly voiced fears about the Government’s current agenda – putting the needs of business ahead of the needs of tamariki.

Meetings run until Friday 24 May.

Note to editors:

Meetings of note in Tāmaki Makaurau and Te Whanganui-a-Tara:

Tuesday 14 May, 4pm-5pm, Mt Roskill, Auckland

Wednesday 15 May, 4pm-5pm, Thorndon, Wellington

Up to 100 are expected at each event, with a mix of MPs from major parties attending. Union members will be available for interview. Photo opportunities with MPs during pledge signing and members with custom-made giant photo frames.