Media release
3 October 2014
Celebrating World Teachers’ Day
The huge part that teachers play in the lives of every New Zealander is being acknowledged this weekend as World
Teachers’ Day is celebrated.
The Secretary for Education, Peter Hughes, says teachers do an incredible job to help children and young people be the
very best they can be in life.
“We’ve all got stories to tell about the teacher or teachers that made a life-long difference for us, and this is a good
time to remember them.
“For me it’s a big thanks to a teacher at Brooklyn School. We were all a bit scared of Mr Williams, but it was he who
made the difference for me when I was struggling. He worked out how to get me going and was a big part of me starting to
achieve at school.”
Mr Hughes says others can tell their stories about great teachers too by going to www.inspiredbyU.org.nz and posting a message on a virtual postcard.
“There have been contributions from people all over the country, and they’ve recognised some of the amazing work done by
teachers over many years.
“I want to personally thank teachers in schools across New Zealand for their professionalism and dedication, and for
helping kids to get the best out of their education to set them up for success in life.”