Volume 41 | Number 3 | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-a--nuku 2020
Creating a teaching council we can trust - pg 10-11
PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 | 1 About PPTA
PPTA News PPTA member benefits
ISSN 0111-6630 (Print) ISSN 1178-752X (Online)
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In this issue...
Teachers are our nation builders 3 Senior leader wellbeing 6 Teaching council campaign 10-11 PPTA elections 12-13 Guidance counsellors and Covid-19 19 Māori leadership webinar 20
2 | PPTA NEWS | September | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 President's viewpoint
Teachers are our nation builders
PPTA president Jack Boyle thanks our members for the difference they have made in our nation’s schools.
Your efforts have made Humbled and grateful to a powerful difference have stood alongside you To all of you who have gathered As I come to the end of my time together learning resources and as president of PPTA I feel both delivered them to the homes of your humbled and incredibly grateful to students, those who have called have stood alongside you as you have and emailed parents to check how continued to move mountains for the your learners are getting on, those tamariki mokopuna in our nation’s who have rearranged classrooms to secondary schools. keep a 1m distance between desks, Of course, teaching has never been cleaned after each lesson, run catch easy, and it never will be. But for all the up sessions, developed Individual very real challenges, those brought to Education Plans and re-marked work the fore this year, those we have raised Jack Boyle | NZPPTA President looking to recognise the learning over the last four years and those to that has happened outside of come, I am so optimistic about where formal assessments. we are going. Why? Because of the Every day I am inspired by the To all of you who have with grace teachers who will lead the way. It is efforts of our kaiako. Teaching and good humour demonstrated you who will shape the state of this is such a powerful profession. your commitment to education profession—and the future prospects of It’s characterised by care and and the learners we serve – thank our children. professionalism alongside a you. Your efforts have made a Māku te ra e tō ana; kei a koe te powerful difference. urunga ake o te rā. deep commitment to young people, their whanau and our wider society. Whether it’s engaging our ākonga through scaffolded learning in a subject in order for them to gain understanding and mastery or guiding them through life events and challenges so that they develop resilience and confidence, we’re there for them. We make the difference. The strength of our country grows through teaching Teachers are our nation builders – the strength of every profession in our country grows out of the knowledge and skills that teachers help to instil in our children. This year, perhaps more than ever, those efforts have been so important. With the impacts of Covid-19 on our students and communities we have found those reserves of courage, of care and commitment to keep young people connected and learning. We’ve moved to online learning while they were away from school and found alternatives when this wasn’t possible. We’ve changed learning programmes and assessments to mitigate the impacts of time away from school. We’ve counselled and supported, guided and soothed, motivated and encouraged our students – all while dealing with the consequences of the pandemic ourselves, within our own Teachers will lead the way whanau and communities.
PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 | 3 PPTA women
PPTA women support essential workers
PPTA’s Women’s Network took part in the Rural Women’s Mighty Morning Tea Shout to thank essential workers.
PPTA wāhine mā showed “I know, as the daughter of a nurse, “I decided to step forward to this role appreciation for the essential that teachers and nurses have much as I am passionate about equity in all areas of education, so this seemed like workers in their regions who in common, so I felt we should show them our support and solidarity at this a good fit for me. helped others during level difficult time,” she said. “I have found the role exciting, 4 lockdown. Through local café and catering especially when attending conferences, The PPTA Women’s Network supported business Bean & Gone, Julie organised where the heavier issues are weighed Rural Women New Zealand in thanking for treats to be made for the midwives and things I have not considered are those who kept us safe during Covid-19 at the aptly named Bethlehem brought to the fore. I hope to continue by taking part in the Rural Women’s Birthing Centre. to help any women in my region work in a safe and equitable environment.” Mighty Morning Tea Shout on July 29. “I have been in awe of the birthing Caregivers, supermarket workers, centre ever since it was established, as rubbish collectors, couriers and medical it has been set up specifically to meet Mighty Morning Tea Shout professionals were just some of the the needs of new mothers and their groups thanked, and in Tauranga it whanau in our community, and they do was midwives. On 29 July RWNZ Members this so very well,” she said. will be baking morning tea to PPTA Western Bay of Plenty regional thank those who helped “I think it is fair to say they enjoyed others out during Level 4 women’s rep Julie Secker is an lockdown. their morning tea, which was well English teacher and Kāhui Ako deserved. Next time nurses, I might During Level 4 lockdown, many New Zealanders Within School Teacher at Tauranga’s have honed their baking skills and created actually do the making myself, and yummy treats for the people in their bubbles. Otumoetai College. At the same time, some New Zealanders stay a little longer (had to get it done worked through the lockdown because they were our essential workers. Lots She had seen many news reports of between lessons, as you do, so it was of people helped their friends and how difficult this time has been for neighbours too. a bit rushed!)” Rural Women New Zealand wants to say a huge thank you to You can thank midwives and felt they were deserving all the people who helped someone too. “I would highly recommend we do to keep us safe during of a thank you. lockdown and we more sharing and caring across union want you to help “One thing I noticed in particular was us do this. Join in by making or buying morning tea for essential workers groups, as we have much in common, and other people who helped out how willing midwives were to help new where you live and deliver it to and a little kindness goes a long way,” them on Wednesday, 29 July. mothers beyond the birthing process, Awhi mai awhi atu. for example, buying them the things Julie said. (I give to you and you give to me.) For more information they needed when they weren’t able to Julie has been regional women’s rep fb: rural women nz mighty morning tea shout go and get them themselves. for just over a year. e: [email protected]
Midwife Gemma Kurth and Maternity Care Assistant Angela Scott enjoy a well-deserved morning tea courtesy of PPTA’s Women’s Network.
4 | PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 Schools Pride Week
Celebrating Pride in schools
Palmerston North Girls’ High School teacher Nikki Weston shares how her school celebrated New Zealand’s first nationwide Schools Pride Week.
Pride flags, poetry, rainbow quizzes and support groups appeared in schools throughout the country to celebrate New Zealand’s first Schools Pride Week. Held from August 24 to 28 Schools Pride Week was created by InsideOUT, a national organisation that works with youth, whanau, schools, and communities to make Aotearoa a safer place for all rainbow young people to live in. To celebrate Schools Pride Week Palmerston North Girls High School started up a new rainbow group and made student directed plans for 2021, social sciences teacher Nikki Weston said. “We decorated the library, had a display of rainbow themed books, encouraged students to post pics on Instagram and write in the InsideOUT writing competition,” she said. The school also held a blackout poetry session, a pride quiz with facts from New Zealand’s pride history and created a lunchtime safe space during the week. “We put up pride flags in classes Staff at Palmerston North Girls’ High and Papamoa College show support for and offices around the school for the rainbow tauira different identities with information sheets on each for those who didn’t Our students felt safe and Pride should be celebrated know,” she said. acknowledged every day of the year Visibility is important Schools Pride Week went down well Nikki has a few tips for those schools Being part of the rainbow community at Palmerston North Girls’ High, wanting to give Schools Pride Week herself and knowing there were many Nikki said. a go. “See if you have any rainbow rainbow students at the school inspired “The kids loved it! There were so many students who want to take control Nikki to get involved with the week. students coming into the library and as leader, so that the activities (and “We have supportive staff who know pointing out which flag or identity potential rainbow groups) can be the student rainbow community quite corresponded to them and it started student directed. well who wanted to show their support,” many more conversations. The staff Join up with a local association, or use she said. were happy to get on board, and a core the resources from InsideOUT, which group of staff put the pride flags up in make it very easy to do. There will “More conversations need to be had their room so students knew where the always be people happy to help out around affirming people’s identities and safe spaces and allies were.” helping them to explore who they are. if you just ask. It means a lot to the Nikki recommends other schools Having visibility is really important so students, and rainbow staff members, get involved. “It was so fantastic students have people they can look up to get involved,” she said. to know our students felt safe and to who are like them. acknowledged in school. It didn’t take “Pride should be celebrated every day “I also think it is beneficial for students’ much effort (a sneaky trip to Kmart of the year, but it is so great to have mental health as often rainbow for rainbow supplies) and it was great such condensed visibility in one week students experience more bullying to have links with InsideOUT who gave that students can identify with.” and mental health issues around their us ideas and supplies and ran the To find out more about Schools Pride identity,” she said. writing competition.” Week visit insideout.org.nz
PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 | 5 Wellbeing
Senior leaders are crucial and so is their wellbeing
PPTA News profiles Bay of Islands College deputy principal, pastoral, Annette Wynyard as part of our focus on senior leadership wellbeing.
Principals and senior leaders A natural progression you of why we do what we do with a have been crucial in ensuring Annette says her transition to senior passion,” she said. schooling could continue leadership was well-timed. She Pandemic showed importance spent five years teaching Te Reo of support networks through the Covid-19 pandemic, Māori me Ona Tikanga, became a The Covid-19 pandemic has revealed but what has this meant for middle manager as head of the Māori the importance of wellbeing and their wellbeing? department and has been in her support networks, Annette says. current role for the past 10 years. “Never has it been more apparent what “My mentors along the way were my we as a school, a country and indeed brother George, my sister Evelyn Tobin the world have been going through and very dear and treasured friends this year. It certainly has highlighted Alan Forgie (ex-Okaihau College) and the need to support, care and look Simon McGown (Opua School). Their after each other in order to survive nurturing and guiding support has and carry on. Our staff have been been crucial to my own growth and amazing, resilient and steadfast in development as a school leader.” keeping our ship afloat. So too have the Annette decided to pursue a leadership students, their parents, and the wider role because it seemed like a natural communities here in Northland. progression and she enjoyed the “We all know that this is a very long challenges that came with taking on road we are walking, but we are all more responsibility. mindful of everything that is happening Education is all about change around us and through it all we will Annette Wynyard “Education is all about change and work together to stay safe, happy and constantly keeping pace with society’s keep our school going for the sake of PPTA Te Wehengarua has partnered demands while supporting our young our students and their futures.” with Deakin University in research on people to make the right choices for Find good mentors principal and senior leader wellbeing themselves moving into the world after If there was any advice Annette could and we are calling for members to secondary schooling,” she said. give other teachers contemplating take part. “Being a senior leader at our college taking on a senior leadership role it The research is confidential and is enables me to keep a finger on the would be to find good mentors and role being conducted via an online survey pulse of our kids, communities, board models and learn well from them. and all other stakeholders’ dreams which is open now at ppta.org.nz “Stay steadfast in your beliefs and and aspirations for the future and it is Introducing Annette Wynyard also keep your passion for teaching at exciting to be a part of that.” In this issue PPTA Te Wehengarua the forefront of what you do on a daily member Annette Wynyard shares her There are many challenges associated basis. The administrative workload of experiences of senior leadership. with leadership roles in schools, being a senior leader is always going to Annette says. be cumbersome and sometimes never Annette is deputy principal pastoral at ending, but that’s just the nature of the Bay of Islands College in Kawakawa “The wellbeing of your students and staff is paramount and we beast. Keep a balance in your life and Northland. She was born at Kawakawa are answerable to our board and interests outside and don’t sweat the hospital and raised in Moerewa. communities every step along the way. small stuff,” she said. “Education did not suit me at that time “Some days may not be the greatest, Abridged – visit ppta.org.nz for and I left at the tender age of 14.5 yet others will come along and remind full version years old, only to return in the early 1990s as an adult student to pursue Te Reo Māori through the Te Ataarangi revitalisation movement,” she said. Annette then moved onto the Te Kura Kaupapa Māori teacher training course at Epsom, while simultaneously completing a Bachelor of Education at Auckland University. “I was a teaching principal at the Kura Kaupapa Māori o Taumarere when my brother George Wynyard called me to come and teach with him here at our old school, the Bay of Islands College Senior leaders are crucial in schools and so is their wellbeing. and 25 years later I am still here.”
6 | PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 Inside PPTA’s regional wellbeing workshops
Morrinsville College teacher Fiona Wolff shares her experience of PPTA and Worksafe Reps Creating Positive Workplaces wellbeing workshop.
Getting teachers home safe and healthy is the overarching theme of PPTA’s Creating Positive Workplaces regional wellbeing workshops. Held in conjunction with Worksafe Reps, which is owned and operated by the union-established Kaimahi Mātauranga Workers Education Trust, the courses have been held both regionally in person and digitally via Zoom. Information and registration details for the remaining courses for 2020 can be found at ppta.org.nz PPTA members take part in one of the last face-to-face wellness courses before An opportunity to learn more level 4 lockdown. Morrinsville College teacher Fiona Wolff took part in the course digitally and sometimes ‘wellbeing’ is considered She had no issues with taking part in found it a “really relevant and valuable” a touchy-feely thing, but the course the course over Zoom. “The technology use of her time. breaks down where it sits in a legal worked great. The slides were spot on space in schools, and how important and the breakout rooms gave you a Fiona’s undergraduate degree was in it is to ensure productivity and chance to talk to other people. It all just chemical and materials engineering happiness in staff. In addition, there went so well.” and she worked for around eight was a massive amount of practical years in New Zealand and Australia in Supporting colleagues at work. risk-reduction tools which could make a production engineering. During that Because Fiona is on study leave she difference to schools right now.” time she did a post graduate diploma hasn’t had the chance to enact what in occupational health and safety and Case studies a stand out. she has learned from the course yet, then worked in specialist safety roles in The workshops are based on case but she is looking forward to thinking Australia. studies that are relevant to teachers, more about how she can better support She retrained as a teacher in 2008 senior staff, principals and boards her colleagues. and currently lives with her family in of trustees and Fiona found these “As a middle leader, it has certainly the Waikato. This year she received particularly useful. made me more reflective on my role in a PPTA study award and is doing an “The case studies were posed just terms of our department’s wellbeing. It educational research thesis with AUT. the way a situation would happen at was astoundingly obvious from the case Fiona has always enjoyed PPTA school – so the initial problem, then studies that many wellbeing issues workshops. “I found all three of an escalated problem, and the end in school stem from either lack of the Mahi Tika courses brilliant for situation. It was really good for me to processes or issues with middle/senior considering industrial relations in see how problems arise with wellbeing managers and staff. Being aware of an education workspace,” she said. in a workplace, and the helpful (and not how common this is challenges me to “Because I am on study leave I have so helpful) steps which cause things to do better,” she said. been involved in LOTS of training get worse – or hopefully better.” An important course and lectures this year, and when the I have recommended for school leaders wellbeing workshops went online I this course so much Fiona believes all school leaders should saw this as another opportunity to Fiona has recommended the course to attend courses like this one “so they learn more.” many people but realises that it may can lead and manage staff from a Practical risk-reduction tools be an issue for those who struggle to legislative and proactive space – rather According to Fiona the course was get relief cover. Registration is free but than past experience and gut instinct. well run, with just the right number schools need to cover relief and travel. If more senior leaders/managers better of participants. “The resources were “I have recommended this course understood their role in improving supplied well in advance and were so much, it was so useful. But I was wellbeing, schools could be a happier useful after the fact as well,” she said. able to do it without worrying about place. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it “Because I’ve worked in Health and my relief. While we are worrying about again, PPTA courses are one of the only Safety areas in the past, it was really wellbeing and workload, it would be ways to receive training on industrial good to go over all of the legislation awesome if the course could be offered management in an education setting.” involved in schools, and when each in a different format – as in weekends, Abridged – visit ppta.org.nz for one is used or not used. It seems that evenings etc.” full version
PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 | 7 Guidance counsellors
Guiding students through a pandemic
PPTA News talks with Fiordland College guidance counsellor Fiona Humphries about her job and Covid-19.
This year has seen is by ensuring schools have sufficient unprecedented calls on the guidance counsellors to do the specialised pastoral work. expertise of school guidance She wants PPTA to keep up the counsellors in supporting pressure for all secondary schools to students coping with the have guidance funded at a ratio of Covid-19 pandemic. 1:400 – although a lower ratio would be her preference. PPTA News talks with Fiordland College guidance counsellor Fiona Humphries “There is empirical evidence that having about her experience on the frontline. counsellors in schools is beneficial for both students and teachers. Advocacy Fiona has been a guidance counsellor for staffing counsellors appropriately Fiona Humphries for 14 years and has worked at across all schools is crucial for the Fiordland College for five. She is mental health of our students, and to guidance counsellor, careers advisor, Support can come in many forms support the wellbeing and workload TIC music and also teaches health. The role of school guidance counsellors management of our teachers. “I did my Masters of counselling is important at any time but vital during Access for all students through Massey, which worked really this ongoing situation, Fiona says. in all schools is vital well for me while working and being “Our role in supporting not only our a mum,” she said. The government has recently students but also whanau and staff announced an increase of 90 full-time Challenges and rewards means that there is a youth mental equivalent guidance counsellors across Wearing so many hats can be health specialist on-site, usually highly large secondary schools, a move Fiona challenging at times, Fiona says. qualified and experienced, who can says will benefit many. However, she provide specialized skills, consultations, “There are times that my dual roles believes equitable access is needed expertise and resources,” she said. of teaching and counselling provide whatever the school. challenges, but I work hard to run Guidance counsellors also play a role “Large schools have been sorely in a positive classroom and build in supporting teachers, many of whom need for more counsellors, so this was constructive, genuine relationships are feeling stretched this year. “This a welcome announcement. But I was with students, which is the key to most support can come in many forms but disappointed the government didn’t things in education. we are working together, providing a acknowledge that providing access for supportive school environment and students in all schools is vital. Youth “Since our school is small I get to know helping students reach their potential.” many of the students and their families, mental health would be best supported Counsellors need to which I find the most rewarding part of by ensuring equitable access to the look after themselves specialized services of onsite school my job,” she said. Fiona herself has had her moments counsellors regardless of geographic Increased connection through Covid this year but is doing well. “Overall I am region, decile or size of school.” During level 4 lockdown the vast great, but I constantly monitor where School guidance counsellors majority of students did not access I am at and try to make good choices. are the best solution support through counselling. However, As always, it is important to get enough A further $44 million over four since returning to school Fiona noticed sleep, practise self-care, and cuddle years has also been announced to a distinct difference to previous years. grandchildren,” she said. contract local organisations to provide “The presenting issue is primarily “Counsellors are experts on wellbeing counselling in schools most affected by anxiety – in volumes much greater and self-care and we sometimes need the Covid-19 downturn. than in previous years, presenting at all to be reminded to put this knowledge Fiona welcomes the increase in funding levels and particularly prevalent in our into practice for ourselves.” but believes it would be better spent senior students,” she said. Fiona works with a very supportive supporting the existing guidance Another difference was the greater staff, pastoral deans and senior counsellor infrastructure and systems number of parents who had noticed leadership team, in particular her in schools. distress in their children and sought principal, Lynlee Smith. “My regular “I strongly believe guidance help themselves, then involved the clinical supervision is another vital part counsellors are the best solution. school, she said. of sustaining a professional practice. School counsellors work effectively “More parents are contacting either However, I couldn’t do this job without and efficiently within existing school a dean or me directly and seeking the support and understanding of my systems. We are youth mental health family, especially my husband.” support and guidance for their children specialists and are well situated to too. This increased connection is a All schools need guidance counsellors provide this support. positive which I believe is a reflection of Fiona believes one of the best ways Abridged – visit ppta.org.nz for our Covid year.” to support the wellbeing of teachers full version
8 | PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 Strengthening student wellbeing
A look into the Te Pakiaka Tangata: Strengthening Student Wellbeing for Success guidelines.
The expertise of school guidance • The principal/guidance counsellors in helping students counsellor relationship with anxiety at home, school • Traumatic incidents – responding as a team and in the wider community is in huge demand as a result of the • Common ethical dilemmas Covid-19 lockdown. Student wellbeing • The concept of wellbeing includes This is hardly surprising when the the physical, mental and emotional, activities and connections with others social and spiritual dimensions that bring a sense of belonging, of health. and the learning opportunities and • Hauora is a Māori concept of health achievements in the classroom, on the unique to New Zealand, which stage and the sporting field, have been turned upside down. Students’ ability to holistically encompasses all aspects be resilient and box on in times of such of a young person. It comprises uncertainty for everyone around them taha tinana, taha hinengaro, taha has been well and truly put to the test. whānau and taha wairua. Each of these four dimensions of hauora are Conversations about hauora and interconnected. wellbeing are even more critical as all those involved in school settings • Student wellbeing, or a lack of it, has begin to re-establish routines and a clear influence on student mental learning programmes. Each school should be using these health and learning. To enable every student to achieve to their School guidance counselling affects guidelines to develop their own plan highest potential, it is essential that many aspects of Te Whare Tapa Whā, for providing high-quality pastoral care, effective services to support student often strengthening relationships within guidance and counselling for their wellbeing are available both in whanau at home and school, attending students, and for integrating this care schools and the wider community. to immediate needs (taha tinana), into its own culture. You can delve into providing a safe environment to express the guidelines yourself which are on • School guidance counselling is a emotions and reflect (taha hinengaro) the PPTA website under the Guidance specialist role. Effective counselling and lifting the spirits (taha wairua) Counsellors page or on the Ministry of seeks to empower the student to of rangatahi as they navigate te ao Education education.govt.nz website – develop their coping skills and make hurihuri (changing world.) there is a wealth of ideas, advice and positive changes in their lives. It It is timely then to remind ourselves of links to further resources and support. includes working with individuals, the Te Pakiaka Tangata: Strengthening From pastoral care to ethical dilemmas groups and families/whānau, and Student Wellbeing for Success working at the interface between Te Pakiaka Tangata covers a number of students and others around them guidelines to help us navigate our topics. These include: provision of pastoral care, guidance who may influence their lives. • The priority of student and counselling. These guidelines were - From Te Pakaika Tangata wellbeing – hauora developed in response to an Education Review Office evaluation of the existing • Understanding pastoral care, Other related updates in brief provision of guidance and counselling guidance and counselling in a services in secondary schools. They school environment • PPTA along with NZEI and the were released at the end of 2017 and • Positive school approaches Ministry of Education have support the notion that everyone in a and practices commissioned some research school has a role to play in supporting on the funding of Children with • Principles of good pastoral care the wellbeing of students, although there Complex Needs with a view to is a range of roles within a school that • Role of form/whānau teachers understanding how the teaching contribute differently to this support. and deans of children with additional needs PPTA was well represented in the • Role of the school impacts on teacher workload. development of this document that guidance counsellor • $75.8 million over four years provides evidence based, strategic • Good practice guidelines for school announced by the government and practical advice to schools. It is guidance counsellors funding for mental health more than a guide about guidance • Pastoral care, guidance and and wellbeing. This funding counselling, providing advice about legal counselling with Māori students and includes support from 2021 and ethical responsibilities, culturally- whānau, particularly in wharekura and, amongst other provisions, responsive practice, responding to will help employ more guidance • Role of school boards of trustees young people with diverse identities counsellors in schools with over and backgrounds, collaborative staff • Role of the principal and 450 students. relationships and much much more. senior leaders
PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 | 9 Teaching council campaign
My teaching council will…
PPTA members share their vision for an effective teaching council.
PPTA members throughout Teachers understand the need to have the law will allow for a new teaching the country are sharing a registration body that ensures the council that meets our needs (see profession retains its high standards. page opposite). their vision for an effective They need their council to be cost Posters have been sent out in branch teaching council through the effective and they need to trust that it kits for members to share their ideas #myTCwill campaign. will work for teachers, not against them. and are also available to download A few small changes to the wording of at ppta.org.nz
10 | PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 A council for teachers
An update on the campaign for a teaching council we can trust.
This year started with branch- based paid union meetings to respond to the teaching council’s proposal to increase fees by 125%. PPTA members swung into action at short notice to take My Teaching part in the consultation process will... and gave the teaching council a Council clear message: the increase was inequitable, and the expansion of teaching council activities change – which is easy for them – the community. It’s insulting to think that is hugely important to teachers. our professional body has a legislated was unacceptable. PPTA general secretary Michael responsibility to boost our status for us. The council, although claiming to be Stevenson and president Jack Boyle Meeting with Simon Bridges the voice of teachers, did not listen to have been meeting with the education Rebecca Holmes, regional chair for them. On the first day back at school spokespeople from each of the major Western Bay of Plenty, met with Simon after Covid-19 lockdown, the final political parties to let them know why Authorised by PPTA, 60Bridges, Willis Street, Wellington who is the National Party MP decision about the fees increase was this issue is so important to teachers, in her electorate. Mr Bridges, who has announced. The fees would increase and asking them to commit to changing family members who are teachers, by 115%, and certification would this law within their first one hundred responded positively to the suggested change from triennial to annual. In days in office. changes to the teaching council, and light of what teachers now saw as PPTA members campaign stated a wish to keep recruitment, a sham consultation, branch-based PPTA members have been doing status, and morale of the profession meetings were called, and teachers what they do best and getting the high. He also expressed surprise voted no confidence in the current word out that the current state of the at the high salaries of the teaching teaching council. teaching council will not do. Regions, council managerial staff, particularly A new model branches and individual members have in comparison to teacher and PPTA executive has approved a new written letters, sent postcards, met principal salaries. with local political candidates, held model for the teaching council, that Rebecca explained that National’s election panels and taken part in the would ensure the teaching council promise to provide government funding #myTCwill social media campaign. doesn’t expand beyond its remit and for teaching council fees is a good pass on these costs to teachers. The Seamus Maher, branch chair at start, but it does not address the other key points about the model: Onslow College, summed up teachers’ areas of concern such as the change • The teaching council’s purpose and frustrations in his letter to Minister of to annual certification or expensive functions are limited to the core Education Chris Hipkins: empire building. Mr Bridges gave his tasks that teachers value: initial I am writing to you in support of personal support for the changes, and teacher registration and conduct the PPTA’s request that legislation drawing on his legal background, felt and competency procedures. is changed to ensure that teachers that the changes to the legislation have a teaching council that oversees • Significantly increasing the that PPTA is requesting are relatively teacher competency proceedings and number of representatives of the straightforward. His next steps are administers teacher registration in education sector, including union to follow up with National education order to keep professional standards representatives, on the teaching spokesperson Nicola Willis for further high. No less, no more. action on this issue. council board The current act, that defines the #myTCwill • Automatic recertification for teaching council’s role, is vague and teachers, unless there is a conduct There is still work to be done to make has allowed for a teaching council or competency issue. sure that politicians are convinced that performs a confusing list of of the importance of these issues to • Salaries for staff employed by the functions and has shown ineptitude teachers and principals alike. If you teaching council to be linked to the in responding to, and communicating haven’t yet written to your local MP or to teachers and principals’ pay scales. with, the teaching profession as a relevant government minister, it’s not a whole. Lobbying from national office too late. Writing a letter, asking to meet To get this new model, we need the … in person, or joining in our social media legislation that governs the teaching Students and parents see the hard work actions are still needed to make sure council to be changed. The PPTA’s that myself and my teaching colleagues this issue stays front and centre. Check campaign is designed to make put into students’ education. As a result out ‘A council for teachers’ at ppta.org. sure politicians know that this law of this, we already have a high status in nz for everything you need.
PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 | 11 PPTA elections
Presidential elections – vice president
PPTA has received two nominations for vice president. Each candidate explains why they should be elected. Voting papers will be sent to all branches. Voting closes 5pm, 23 October. Congratulations to our new president Melanie Webber who was appointed unopposed – look out for a profile on her in our November-December issue.
Chris Abercrombie – the teacher in a large city school. I the wide range of teachers that we James Hargest College understand the unique issues and have in Aotearoa New Zealand. I face challenges that each face. the issues and obstacles that we face Having had the experience of working I’ve been into schools that are facing but I’ve also felt the incredible joy and in different schools and in different a CAPNA and schools that don’t have sense of pride that we all have had areas of New Zealand, I understand the as teachers within our classroom and enough teachers. varied pressures that we have all faced our schools. I’ve been the Dean and the Middle around the motu. We are all a part of this journey. Every Leader and I understand the time I’ve been that beginning teacher on school - from Te Tai Tokerau Northland pressure those positions create. a fixed term contract wondering if I all the way down to the bottom of the was going to be able to pay my bills I’ve been the form teacher, the tutor waka where I live - should have what in February. I’ve been that teacher in teacher, the mentor teacher, and all the they need. Auckland worrying about paying the other names that have been created What they need so that they can truly rent; with the idea of buying a house for the role. I’ve been the TIC by default bring out the best in their teachers, a distant dream. without any extra pay or time. in their students, and in their I’ve been that teacher at the only Having these experiences means that communities. When we work together, school in a small town and I’ve been I can be the voice that will speak for we can do that.
12 | PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 PPTA has received two nominations for vice president. Each candidate explains why they should be elected. Voting papers will be sent to all branches. Voting closes 5pm, 23 October. Congratulations to our new president Melanie Webber who was appointed unopposed – look out for a profile on her in our November-December issue.
Joe Hunter – part of planned and coherent change. • working with government to Otago Girls’ High School It is critical that we have a strong build the concept of schools as partnership with a government that community hubs Kia ora tātou, supports and values the work that we • participating as experts in This year has tested us all. There’s a do. Our union is in good heart and educational change and policy we’re moving forward. special sort of “tired” just for teachers. • ensuring access to quality public But it’s also been a chance to see I stand for the future growth and education for all students different ways of doing things, to test activism of our union in: • leading in professional learning the educational waters and find out • acting as an exemplar in Tiriti and pursuing our own model of a what really matters. partnership teaching council Our professional expertise and positive • strengthening our position as • addressing workload and conditions relationships with ākonga and their the leading voice of education in as core issues for our union families have enabled us to put their Aotearoa New Zealand wellbeing and learning above all. • exploring new ways of engaging As we move into a major reform of our members at branch and education, it’s vital that our union is regional levels
PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 | 13 Edtech
The edtech pandemic shock: A global response
Education International’s latest research on the commercialisation of education in the context of Covid-19.
While many businesses have Concerns and tensions and the management of education experienced a downturn in the The research also raised a number of by private actors. wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, concerns and tensions. Commercial It also advocates further research edtech players have been offering free into; how unevenly schools have edu-business is booming, to heavily subsidised products but most experienced edtech, what the rejection according to Education want to exist beyond the current crisis. rate has been, the effects on families of International’s latest research. Organisations may be fronting up with edtech coming into the home and the free trials now but want to mitigate implications for teacher workload. The sudden emergence of edtech as these with later costs. It concludes that unions are the voice of the result of the pandemic has caused Some funders and decision makers reason and, when informed by research, a shock in the landscape of governance are shaping the edtech market can pose a central and vital role in in public education. towards particular suppliers and these promoting and establishing a shared PPTA attended the virtual launch of companies are using the pandemic vision of public and state schooling. ‘Commercialisation and privatisation to roll out new large-scale platforms Students before profit in/of education in the context of and systems – giving schools the Education International president Covid-19’ by Ben Williamson (University opportunity to gather and monitor Susan Hopgood emphasised the of Edinburgh) and Anna Hogan student engagement data through their importance of EI members supporting (University of Queensland) in a bid to programmes. Google, Amazon and each other during the pandemic. better understand this. Microsoft are the biggest organisations She recognised the profound historic Edtech solutions are necessary of concern as they are not just increasing the number of signups, but shift in the landscape and need to The researchers acknowledged from seeking to change the pedagogical defend public education. Governments the outset that edtech solutions have landscape. Big players like Pearson must prioritise public education and been necessary and that the formation Education are across all categories. it’s our duty to ensure students come of international, multisector coalitions before profit, she said. Non traditional education actors to fast track efforts to address short such as Amazon, with its machine Further information term issues has been admirable. learning for education AI based The full research and summary of its More than 90% of the student teaching assistance are competing for key findings can be found at ei-ie.org population has been affected globally education space. And new entrants You can find a blog by Anna Hogan and and ensuring access to devices, such as Tiktok are marketing directly Ben Williamson on the research findings internet and platforms for teachers to to parents through hashtags such called The edtech pandemic shock. conduct the learning is necessary to as #learnontiktok. The United Nations Educational, address equity. Conclusions and recommendations Scientific and Cultural Organisation The report highlights the need to build The research recommends initial (UNESCO)’s ‘Education in a post-Covid a framework of evidence about what mapping of the evolution and world: Nine ideas for public action’ can edtech tools work and why. expansion of the edtech industry also be found at en.unesco.org.
The private sector and commercial businesses are capitalising on Covid-19 school closures.
14 | PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 World Teachers’ Day
World Teachers’ Day goes digital
This year’s World Teachers’ Day will be a series of virtual events over 24 hours.
Teachers: Leading in crisis, reimagining the future – will be the theme of a World Teachers’ Day with a difference this year. Education International (EI) is organising an ambitious 24-hour celebration on October 5, which will consist of a stream of virtual events hosted on its communications channels. All events will be online and interactive to allow wide access and engagement of members and the broader public. They will be shared through EI’s Facebook, YouTube and Twitter channels and you can find more information on their website ei_ie.org Teachers always at the forefront Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic teachers around the world have taken the lead in continuing to deliver quality education while adapting to a challenging new environment. Globally teachers have also played a leading role in keeping education communities safe and healthy. The World Teachers’ Day stream will serve as a platform for member organisations to be heard as they continue to contribute to building a better tomorrow for their students. Teachers have always been at the forefront, in their everyday responsibilities in schools and leadership roles in communities. In the recent months, teachers and Teachers: Leading in crisis, reimagining the future education support personnel and their unions have been further challenged This year’s World Teachers’ Day is an recommendation concerning the status to respond to the challenges of the opportunity to focus a global spotlight of teachers. The recommendation new teaching-learning environment on our capabilities, adaptability and sets benchmarks regarding teachers’ and to the evolving needs of strength and scope of our solidarity. rights. It also sets standards for teacher their communities. Teachers and all educators are indeed training, employment and teaching and For all their efforts, they have been leading in crisis and reimagining learning conditions. recognised and appreciated, most the future. especially by students and parents. World Teacher’s Day history Each year there is a different While in this crucial time educators The United Nations Educational, theme. Some of the most recent have shown their professionalism and Scientific and Cultural Organisation ones have been: dedication, it has also exposed long- (UNESCO) proclaimed October 5 to be 2019: Young teachers: The future existing problems of the profession of the profession and the education sector. As countries World Teachers’ Day in 1994. It chose rebuild from the pandemic, educators October 5 because it was on this date 2018: The right to education means and their unions reiterate their calls in 1966 when a significant step was the right to a qualified teacher for adequate support to teachers and made for teachers. 2017: Empowering teachers the entire sector, raising the status A special intergovernmental conference 2016: Valuing teachers, improving of teachers and ultimately providing in Paris adopted the UNESCO/ their status quality education for all. International Labour Organisation (ILO)
PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 | 15 Te Tiriti o Waitangi
Treaty journey for all
PPTA Te Mataroa Bill Anderson talks about PPTA’s Ti Tiriti workshops.
I read an article in the Education Gazette February 2020 by Avondale College teacher Clementine Fraser who shared some insight into how to make the Treaty of Waitangi come alive in learning programmes. For the last 12 years former PPTA field officer, Andrew Barron and I, have been presenting Treaty workshops to secondary school teachers, principals and board of trustee members in secondary schools across the motu. We have always worked with people in the school environment who have had a varied knowledge of the Treaty and who have had a desire to share that knowledge across their curriculum faculties or departments. The Treaty focus has been about “feeding the knowledge base of the teacher” knowing that the students would eventually reap the benefit of the teachers’ knowledge, in the classroom. How we engage with Te Tiriti determines how students will The Fraser article brought me to the understanding that how we engage with Te Tiriti, determines how the students will engage with it. Fraser goes on to say that the key to teaching it successfully is understanding why Te Tiriti is important and why we should be enthusiastic to include it in our learning programmes: • It is the founding document of our nation- albeit an imperfect and broken one; • It is a living document – the promises bound in it are still in action (or should be) today; • It has shaped our history and Te Ao o Tuoroa Marae at Otorohanga of Te Mataroa therefore our national and personal identities, in a multitude of ways; behalf of PPTA. PPTA field officer for Clementine Fraser articulated in her Bay of Plenty and Central Plateau, article about Te Tiriti ō Waitangi. • It is nearly unique in imperial Jason Smythe and PPTA field officer histories of the 19th century; and We are looking forward to receiving for Waikato, Kathleen West, who have many applications for the Te Tiriti • The way society (and schools) accepted the challenge of presenting workshop from those secondary discuss or value Te Tiriti reflects with myself as Te Mataroa for the rest schools who have not had the the way society values the place of of 2020 and all of 2021. opportunity to do so. Please make Māori.”(Fraser, 2020). I stated in many of the workshops contact with the Hamilton PPTA office, New Ti Tiriti workshop presenters that we will endeavour to provide a Jude Sparrow at 07 849 0168 or Bill I would like to introduce two new professional and personal journey of Anderson at [email protected] presenters to support the delivery of conversations about the Treaty and Get your request in early as we work on the Treaty in secondary schools on attempt to fulfil the key elements that first in first served!
16 | PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 Obituary
Never afraid to challenge orthodox thinking
Sharing the words of PPTA stalwart and writer Peter Lyons.
Peter Lyons’ name will be known to many through the newspaper columns, school economics textbooks and PPTA News articles he authored. Peter was never afraid to challenge orthodox thinking in PPTA and we appreciated the time he took to share his thoughts with national office. To honour his talent with words we have reprinted, with permission, a particularly pertinent piece he wrote for the New Zealand Herald. Peter Lyons: Winners have a monopoly on reality The winners are in control. They are winners because they deserve to be winners. They are winners because of their own hard work, talent and application. They are winners because, unlike others, they have had the attitude and sheer drive to make it to the top. Winners hate losers because losers have bad attitudes which cause them to fail. If losers could emulate winners Peter Lyons – image NZ Herald we could be a nation of winners. Losers hold us back as a nation. Winners are become a winner. There are no power of workers is a thing of the past. always keen to share the secrets of imbalances between workers and Employers want to share their profits their success. Winners are often white employers, just market equilibrium. and ensure a safe and fair workplace for and male. Competition ensures that there will be their employees. Any winner knows that. When you are a winner you have the no exploitation of workers otherwise In a winner’s world it is hard to right to preach to others about how to they will seek work elsewhere. understand why anyone would go be a winner. Those on welfare benefits Competition ensures that workers who teaching or nursing or join the police and in low-paid jobs are suffering are productive will be paid accordingly. force. It makes no sense. Any winner because of their unwillingness to seize Unions and living wages and welfare knows that is not where the money or opportunities to make the most of their benefits undermine the natural order of fame is. How many Lamborghinis do lives. They choose to be losers just as this labour market. you see in the average school carpark? winners choose to be winners. Winners believe unions are for Apart from Florence Nightingale, Education is the first route to success. losers. Unions protect the weak, the who can name a famous nurse? Winners know that our schools are unproductive, the mediocre and the People in these occupations don’t staffed by teachers whose lack of sticklers for health and safety. Unions become winners. accountability leads to poor results for interfere with the natural working of When winners get old they reflect on many of their students. A key problem the labour market. Winners believe lives well-lived. They can sit in their is that teachers are not paid according unions are an anachronism. They are well-protected mansions, enjoying their to their performance. Winners are historical relics that hold back people share portfolios, art collections and aware that money is the fundamental with aspirations to be winners. wine cellars. They relish the ease with motivator in life. Teachers just don’t The sweatshops of 19th-century England which they can pay for their private seem to understand this crucial insight. and modern China are unfortunate nurses. They like to dispense their In the workplace, people can always exceptions in the wonderful free market profound insights to others. become winners through their own effort system. Pike River was an isolated and Sometimes their children from various and hard work. It’s not about luck or extreme example of employer negligence marriages also become winners, earn family ties or advantages in upbringing. in health and safety. If unions could be big money in important jobs, drive flash It is about attitude and choices. If abolished and government interference cars and live in their own mansions. winners can do it then anyone can. minimised, competition would ensure They may be famous, too. Winners In a competitive labour market based such experiences would never occur. believe that would be a life well-lived. on the impersonal forces of supply Winners know that human nature has Abridged – for full version and demand, anyone can succeed and changed for the better and exploitation visit ppta.org.nz
PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 | 17 Opinion
In the belly of the beast
PPTA Tāmaki Makarau (eastern) executive member Lawrence Mikkelsen shares his experience of the launch of private virtual school Crimson Global Academy.
On Wednesday July 23rd I, along with Tāmaki Makarau regional chair Michael Cabral-Tarry, attended the launch of Crimson Global Academy. CGA is the new virtual, online school developed by controversial New Zealand college admissions tutoring company Crimson Consulting. I’d somehow ended up on their mailing list, and the lure of hearing CEO Jamie Beaton, former Prime Minister John Key, and former Minister of Education Nikki Kaye talk about “the future of education” to a bunch of parents willing Crimson Consulting CEO Jamie Beaton trumpets the dollars you can earn graduating to spend a small fortune to let their kids from an Ivy League school. stay home and go to school via webcam was an intriguing proposition. Disruptors and digital natives for a full-time student, minus A glitzy affair Current executive principal and former application fee, enrolment fees and The launch, at the Auckland War Auckland Grammar principal John various other bits and pieces.) Memorial Museum, was a glitzy Morris was introduced by the MC Emperor Beaton has no clothes affair, beginning with a guided tour (another former Crimson student) as a Following on was a panel discussion, of the museum and culminating in a “change maker” for education in New where Beaton, John Key, Nikki Kaye and presentation in the panoramic event Zealand - apparently for introducing another Crimson alumnus pontificated centre on the roof. On arrival we were the Cambridge qualifications to about the “future of education”. John split into groups and escorted through New Zealand because he didn’t like Key was quick to say that the greatest the museum by Crimson tutors, all well- NCEA. (I’d argue that seems more thing holding education back is the dressed young people in branded polos, like being a “maintaining- the-status- union movement, which, he declared, and all of whom seemed to be ex- quo-maker”.) Morris’ schtick was all “encouraged mediocrity.” Beaton talked Crimson students. Their model seems about “choice” - the fact that current at length about “relational pedagogy” to have only a small number of qualified schooling systems didn’t allow for as if he’d invented it and claimed teachers on staff with tutors making up choice, and how students going to CGA that teachers in public schools “lack the numbers. have more choice. Morris was just there empathy” for their students. Beaton A photo of the teaching team of 10 to introduce the main course though, also mentioned his dream for “a world showed the makeup of the staff to be millionaire wunderkind and Crimson without racism”, which was pretty rich CEO Jamie Beaton. According to Morris, given the lack of diversity in the room. 90% Pakeha, 90% male and about 80% Beaton is a “disruptor”, a “digital There was an awful lot of talk about above the age of 50. One thing that was native” and some kind of messianic “22nd century learning”, although no quite clear was that our guide didn’t Elon Musk figure, but for education. one on stage could really articulate seem to know the difference between what this actually meant. curriculum and assessment. She took Beaton’s story has been told a bunch of great pains to tell us how amazing the times before. A plucky New Zealander The night was big on bluster, and not much else. Key fell back on well- Pearson Edexcel A-Levels assessment who went on to study at Harvard and worn platitudes, telling the crowd, system was, how it was so much better Stanford, was a Rhodes Scholar, and who set up Crimson to help other amongst other things, that “life isn’t than NCEA, but couldn’t tell us what New Zealanders get into American Ivy a rehearsal”, and what was being curriculum they were teaching. Or why. League schools. For a price. The dollar trumpeted as the Brave New World of Arriving at the top for the actual value of things was something Jamie education didn’t sound much different presentation, it was clear Crimson spent a lot of time talking about. CEO from what every teacher in every state had pulled a big crowd. Auckland is a salaries in US dollars, billion-dollar school in New Zealand has been doing famously diverse city, with the largest dotcoms, and how much your earning this year under Covid-19 restrictions. Polynesian population in the world, but potential increases with an Ivy League Emperor Beaton has no clothes and, you wouldn’t know it from looking at education. The one dollar value that perhaps predictably, there were no the four or five hundred conservatively- wasn’t mentioned was the actual cost opportunities to ask questions. dressed parents and their children of studying at Crimson Global Academy. Abridged, visit ppta.org.nz for milling around. (I’ll save you a Google - about $25,000 full version
18 | PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 Out in the field
Surplus staffing in the age of Covid
Advice on surplus staffing from PPTA’s intrepid field officers.
Teacher staffing numbers in any school are determined by a roll-based allocation from the government, but are often increased by use of local funds. By the end of term three this year your school should have received its staffing allocation for 2021. This can trigger a surplus staffing process if a school is required to reduce teacher numbers and/or units and management allowances. Both the Secondary and Area Schools Teachers’ Collective Agreements contain provisions that must be followed if staffing needs to be reduced. Your employer must keep you informed The first step is that your employer, usually the principal, must tell you if your school is in a surplus staffing situation. Contact your field officer if this does happen in your school. The second step is that the school must If your school has a falling roll it may trigger a surplus staffing process follow a specific, fair and objective process before deciding which, if any, teaching positions are to be are to be disestablished or reduced in the member may ask for PPTA to disestablished or reduced in status. status. As part of this step the board support a personal grievance. This is often referred to as the CAPNA must consult with a nominee of the Fixed term teachers are very vulnerable process, an acronym for Curriculum PPTA national executive. A full analysis in a surplus staffing situation because and Pastoral Needs Analysis. There of the current and predicted curriculum none of the protections are available. and pastoral needs is undertaken and is a range of options are open to any There is a legal requirement that all shown to teachers as part of the legal teacher affected by surplus staffing. positions, including board funded required consultation process. Once you have been told of a surplus should be permanent unless there staffing situation, the employer The board will meet in two stages. is a genuine reason based on must attempt to meet any reduction The first to reach some provisional reasonable grounds. required using attrition. That is the decisions on how the reduction is to be met. This proposal is put to affected If you believe your position should non-replacement of teachers who be permanent, please contact your might (as examples) resign or retire. teachers, so they have an opportunity field officer. Calling for volunteers to seek advice, comment and make submissions. The second stage is Covid-19 If attrition is insufficient then the school for the board to properly consider This year the Covid-19 pandemic will must try and deal with the reduction those responses before making a have a significant impact on surplus by calling for volunteers, who agree to final decision. staffing, most likely in schools that leave in exchange one of three options. have relied on the international student These are: If a teacher’s position is to be disestablished, then that teacher income to support additional teacher 1. Supernumerary employment may choose from the three voluntary staffing. Such teachers are still entitled 2. Retraining, for up to one year. options described. However, those to all collective agreement protections 3. Long Service Payment, teachers have an additional option of including the surplus staffing Details can be found at ppta.org.nz and a severance payment, based on length compensation options. In some cases in the collective agreements of service. Where a position is to have the board must meet the costs. The CAPNA process units and or management allowances Surplus staffing situations can be very reduced then salary protection for one Where attrition and volunteers are stressful, your school should have year is available. insufficient to meet the reduction access to EAP or a similar service. required then the school moves to a Fixed term teachers are vulnerable Remember, if your school is facing a formal CAPNA process. Here the board Please note also if a teacher is surplus staffing situation, contact your will decide which teaching positions dissatisfied with a board decision, field officer. We are here to help.
PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020 | 19 Leadership webinar
Leadership through the eyes of Ma-ori educators
Otago Girls’ High School teacher Joe Hunter shares her experience of PPTA’s first Māori leadership webinar.
PPTA’s Te Huarahi Māori the go and listen in at the same time, She also emphasised an agreement Motuhake, in conjunction with ask questions directly of experts and as necessary to work together in a then later on, watch again, share and partnership (food for thought in our Community Research, held a spread the ideas collective agreement negotiations). webinar on leadership through Will Flavell interviewed non-Maori It was interesting to hear how her the eyes and experiences students of te reo to see what their work with indigenous communities in of two Māori educators in motivations for learning were. He found Australia informed systems change in leadership roles. that they felt really comfortable working a West Auckland secondary school. together in a kaupapa Māori space, Perhaps most intriguing was her and that their parents had a strong job title as “intercultural navigator”. influence on their engagement and Maybe that’s a challenge for all of us academic outcomes. as teachers. He addressed school non-attendance The presenters have such a wealth by sharing the data so that whanau of knowledge and experience and I could come up with workable solutions. would love to learn more from them. COMET Māori Education manager Will The slides with quotations from The MC herself, Kaye-Maree Dunn, has Flavell (Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāpuhi) and students about their “why” and their an outstanding background and much Tokono Te Raki Māori Futures Collective future plans would be a great idea to share I’ve also had a quick look on Kaihautū Dr Eruera Tarena spoke about to have posted around school, and the communityresearch.org.nz website the role of leaders, teachers as leaders great for starting staffroom learning at some previous webinars, and I’m and what supports leaders can put in conversations too. definitely up for a revisit of this material place. Tech entrepreneur Kaye-Maree Arama Mataira shared how her work in greater detail. Dunn moderated the session. with indigenous communities in Thanks to our Te Wehengarua Āpiha Open to all PPTA members, it was an Australia informed systems change in a Māori, Dr Te Mākao Bowkett for opportunity for some much needed West Auckland secondary school. providing this opportunity. It’s a connecting in this space after the Some little pearls I took away to think great way to add to our professional cancellation of the PPTA Māori on how to make positive change were: learning kete. Teachers’ Conference in the wake of Resources and future webinars the Covid-19 lockdown. “you have to look everywhere in the system”, “decisions made and actions If you missed the first webinar, never A participant’s view taken lead to innovation” and “shared fear, it is now available to view online at Otago Girls’ High School teacher Joe vision leads to total wellbeing” ppta.org.nz. You can also view the bios Hunter took part in the webinar and With Te Wiki o te Reo Māori coming up, of the presenters and find out more shared her experiences with us. I’ve been thinking about her remarks about them. This year has been a time of finding on the positive influence on students of Keep an eye on our events page for different ways to share our pedagogy, te reo Māori being modelled and valued details on the second of our webinars, and I’ve found webinars a convenient by staff, particularly when used by the which will highlight Māori approaches way to learn. I like that I can get tea on principal and senior lead team. to wellbeing.
20 | PPTA NEWS | September-October | Mahuru-Whiringa-ā-nuku 2020