NZEI seeks joint investigation into pay equity for teacher aides

8 June 2016

Fair pay for school support staff has moved another step forward today after NZEI Te Riu Roa formally requested an investigation into pay equity for teacher aides.

The union has written to the Secretary of Education asking that the Ministry works together with NZEI Te Riu Roa to resolve the pay equity issue for that group of education workers.

“Once the pay investigation for teacher aides has been resolved we will move to address equity issues for other school support staff such as those working in administration,” says NZEI Te Riu Roa National Secretary, Paul Goulter.

“It is particularly relevant that we have taken this action today on Support Staff Day – the day we celebrate the vital contribution that thousands of support staff make to children’s education.”

Today’s move follows the Joint Working Group principles agreement announced yesterday as well as Kristine Bartlett’s win in the Supreme Court against aged care provider Terranova.

“We want to see real commitment to the principles of equal pay for work of equal value. Teacher aides have been underpaid for years because they are a female-dominated workforce and seen as a “caring” vocation.

“Parents know the value that teacher aides bring to working with children, especially those who are struggling.

“Settling a pay equity claim will have significant fiscal implications for schools. That is why it is critical that the Government commits to funding pay equity claims and reviews the way in which school support staff are funded.”

ENDS

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