PPTA fails to support NZ's outstanding teachers

MEDIA RELEASE
14 April 2005

PPTA fails to support New Zealand’s outstanding teachers

“It is surprising that the PPTA have come out against a policy package that would reward New Zealand’s outstanding teachers with increased pay and recognise teaching as a valuable profession”, says Nicki Taylor, Policy Manager of the Maxim Institute.

The National Party’s education policy announced yesterday included moves to pay good teachers more, ensure teaching is a desirable profession and support teachers in their career development.

“Teachers would stand to benefit enormously from a freed up pay structure and an environment where they are not burdened by bureaucracy. The teaching profession deserves such respect,” says Taylor.

“In condemning National’s policy the PPTA have let down the teachers they supposedly represent,” says Taylor.

“Teachers are some of the most hard working New Zealanders, they do an amazing job in what are currently very difficult conditions. They often give their time generously in extra-curricular activities and tirelessly strive to help our children,” says Taylor.

“Unlike other professional organisations, the PPTA expects teachers to strive for excellence without being rewarded for their effort. This can only be seen as a desire to protect mediocre teachers who fail their pupils,” says Taylor.

“Quality teaching is one of the most significant factors in children succeeding. It is important that teaching becomes a highly regarded profession if we are to attract the best graduates into it,” says Taylor.

ENDS

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