Teachers are already too busy

Teachers are already doing more than they should to deal with serious child welfare problems, says National’s Education spokesman, Bill English.

He is responding to a call from Child, Youth and Family boss Peter Hughes for adults to take more responsibility for children’s welfare and not leave it all to his agency.

“Classroom teachers and school management give hours a day to a small number of children with serious welfare problems,” says Mr English.

“New Zealand is lucky to have so many practical teachers who help children despite having a lack of formal training.

“Schools are expected to deal with every social problem in the community, but they can't do that without distraction from teaching.

“Parents and other adults have to take their share of responsibility so schools can concentrate on teaching every child the basics of reading, writing and maths so they will grow into competent citizens.”

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