A method for making change

Big work weeks, demanding expectations and a lack of proper support networks. Our school leaders deserve better.

In 2019, we took key steps towards a fairer, better resourced primary education sector. But there is still work to be done.

As educators, you play a vital role in the lives of tamariki and communities in Aotearoa. Campaigning for pay equity is an historic opportunity to ensure that educators are valued for the work you do. The work of an educator is highly skilled, however, the pay and conditions don’t always reflect the levels of complexity and creativity within the various education roles. The pay equity process is about addressing the historic and current undervaluation in both pay and status in roles that society has traditionally perceived to be ‘women’s work’. The process determines if there has been an undervaluation and if so, this is corrected. Mana taurite means restoring balance to the imbalance. Pay equity means that your work is seen and properly valued. Let’s come together, champion the work of educators and win the best pay equity settlements that we can.

Kōhanga Reo kaimahi bring incredible skills and experience to an important kaupapa for tamariki Māori, but right now many kaimahi aren’t paid in a way that recognises their value and upholds their mana.

Early childhood teachers so an incredibly important job. But their pay is up to 52% behind kindergarten and primary with the same skills, qualifications and responsibilities. We believe the government needs to act now to fix the gap.

Tamariki in Aotearoa are missing out because learning support is massively underfunded. Together, we can push the government to increase funding so a child can feel connected, supported and valued at school or in their early childhood education.