Whakamana tamariki, whakamana kaiako
We all want the best for our kids.

You may be wondering why we are closing early next Wednesday to attend PUM (Paid Union Meetings). 

Our teachers love what they do. Sadly, not enough funding for schools means that they don’t have the time they would like to support all kids to thrive.

We can fix this though. NZEI Te Riu Roa primary teacher and principal members are making the case to Government for the best investment in tamariki. This is what would make a huge difference:

Smaller class sizes, 
more time for individual students, and  
more specialist learning support staffing 

Keeping and retaining great teachers is top of mind right now. Great teachers are everything to a school and make such a difference! This term, our teachers will be meeting to consider a pay offer – and assessing if it’s enough to make sure that teaching is valued and is an attractive profession. 

That is why our teachers at our school will be attending a paid union meeting on the afternoon of March 1st.

When we support our children to learn and succeed, we are supporting our whānau and communities to thrive. We look forward to another great year in 2023 – and together with your support building the case for better investment in our tamariki.

I know these are trying times, but by standing collectively and asking for help if you need it, I know we can get through it. Thank you for your support!