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.
Recent media releases
-
NZ Government out of step with International Day of Education
The New Zealand Government's current wave of top-down curriculum changes is clashing with the global call for inclusive, student-led learning, NZEI Te Riu Roa said.
-
NZEI extends funding support for schools in India and Myanmar
NZEI Te Riu Roa recently approved a further year of funding support for schools in India and Myanmar, which are attended by around 1300 children in total.
-
Education System Reform Bill threatens teaching profession and equity
NZEI Te Riu Roa President Ripeka Lessels is urging the government to listen to the voices of educators who see the value of local empowerment everyday as public submissions on the…