In June 2021, NZEI Te Riu Roa published Pūaotanga, an independent report which we commissioned in response to longstanding concerns among our members about primary school staffing. The people who shared their views and experiences in contributing to this report told us that primary school staffing is not fit for purpose and the need for change is urgent.
The model used to determine staffing levels has been in place for over 25 years and fundamental changes are required to the ‘one size fits all’ education system we have right now.
In the report, teachers said that they love what they do but lack of funding means that they don’t have the support they need to make sure every child has access to a quality education.
We need systemic change with a clear pathway towards staffing levels that allow teachers to support every child to reach their potential. This means:
National monitoring standards show that many students are falling behind in key areas by the time they reach Year 8. Reported percentages of students falling behind in different subject areas:
There are strong feelings that the education system is racist and not geared to deliver for Māori or Pasifika children. Teachers and support staff are battling to preserve and encourage cultural education under ever-increasing time pressures and administrative burdens. Support in this space is needed.
Change starts from understanding the issues. Read the full Pūaotanga report to understand the challenges facing our educators.
Change starts from understanding the issues. Read the full Pūaotanga report to understand the challenges facing our educators.
Take a look at our current campaigns and find out how you can get involved.
NZEI Te Riu Roa is committed to the protection and upholding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. We believe in the power of unity and the importance of working together to ensure that the rights and interests of our members, and all Māori, are respected and advanced.
The pay equity claim for teachers is currently underway. It is about addressing the historic and current undervaluation in both pay and status in roles that society has perceived to be ‘women’s work’. The process determines if there has been undervaluation and if so, this is corrected. All teachers and principals working in schools, kindergartens and education and care settings are covered by the claim, regardless of gender.
Initial Teacher Education (ITE) plays a vital role in our education system, preparing future teachers with the knowledge and skills they need to begin teaching.
Studying to become an educator? In your first 5 years of teaching? Te Kupenga Rangatahi (New Educators Network) is a great way to make sure you get the best start to your teaching career.