New Zealand opening the door to dangerous era in education

16 October 2012

New Zealand opening the door to dangerous era in education

Legislation introduced into Parliament this week sets New Zealand on course for a dangerous new era in education.

The legislation paves the way for the establishment of charter schools which will be allowed to employ unqualified people to act as teachers.

NZEI Te Riu Roa National President Ian Leckie says the Government has no mandate to introduce this failed Act party policy.

“New Zealanders did not vote at the last election to allow people who are not qualified or registered as teachers to work in our schools as teachers.”

”All New Zealand children deserve to be taught by qualified and registered teachers”, says Mr Leckie.

He says the move is clearly designed to de-professionalise teaching and will have negative consequences for children’s learning.

“We need to focus on retaining and improving equity in our public education system so that all children get access to a good education.”

“Unfortunately, the Government is putting flawed ideology ahead of best teaching practice and this will be very damaging for quality public education in this country,” he says.

ENDS

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