More classroom disruptions likely

More classroom disruptions are likely as the Minister of Education, Trevor Mallard, moves to cut teaching time requirements yet again, says National's Education spokesman, Bill English.

Mr English says springing this change on schools six weeks into the first term means more disruption and confusion for schools already weighed-down by the administrative burden of NCEA and teacher shortages.

"The Minister and the PPTA have agreed to further cut teaching time for first and second year teachers, without providing any more money or teachers to fill the gaps.

"The change spells more trouble for many schools as they struggle to re-organise their timetables in a bid to get teachers in front of classrooms.

"And where does the Minister think the extra teachers to fill the gaps will come from?

"This unexpected news means schools which can't find teachers will be forced to increase class sizes and reduce subject options to meet the new requirements.

"Schools are already struggling to fill the gaps created by the deal in 2002 to reduce contact time for teachers.

"Last week Mr Mallard cancelled school reviews saying now he wanted to concentrate on teaching in the classroom. This week he is forcing secondary schools to cut back on teaching in the classroom," says Mr English.

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