Initial Teacher Education 2040

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.
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.