How do primary school students and their families advocate for their teachers?
For 75 students from Upper Hutt City’s Birchville School, it involves the unmistakable sound of recorders, a dash of percussion, and a backing band of younger siblings, parents, and even grandparents.
To highlight the vital role of the arts and show support for educators, NZEI Te Riu Roa Primary principal leader Robyn Brown has organised a mini-concert on the steps of Parliament.
The setlist? A high-energy rendition of Queen’s “We Will Rock You,” followed by the modern classic “Baby Shark.”
“We are so proud of our tamariki and the heart they put into their music,” says Ms Brown.
“This concert celebrates our students’ musical journeys while advocating for what is close to our hearts: a teacher aide in every classroom, upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and ensuring fair pay for educators.”
Ms Brown says the performance serves as a reminder that the arts are a core part of the curriculum, and performance itself is a form of art.
“This won’t be a perfect, polished show,” Ms Brown adds. “We are showcasing what children can learn in a few lessons. This is what learning looks like. This is what schools value.”
ENDS