NZSTA calls for action to stop anarchy in schools

Media Release

NZSTA calls for action to stop anarchy in schools

The New Zealand School Trustees Association has issued a plea to the PPTA and government to resolve the secondary school teachers pay dispute before a student is physically harmed.

President Chris France says the student strikes during the past two days were bringing schools close to “absolute anarchy”.

He says it is deplorable and must be stopped now.

“For the sake of our children and a way of schooling held dear by all New Zealanders we plead with the government and PPTA to act now before a student gets hurt.

“There is only a small window of opportunity to resolve this dispute before Parliament goes into recess and we urge the Government and PPTA to seize this chance. Government has indicated a willingness to talk, but we must ensure that the opportunity does not slip away due to reasons of process or the need for consultation.”

Chris France says that for the sake of students it is time to put aside the rules, legalities and process issues – now is the time to fix the problem.

“The Government must have an idea on what extra, if any, it can put into the pot, the PPTA must move very quickly to find out what its members will find acceptable. It is essential that re-engagement occurs as top priority of both parties. A faint heart will not win the day on this one – clear and decisive action is called for.

“Our children, our schools and our communities cannot sustain another six weeks or more of this week’s chaos without seriously damaging the very fabric of secondary schooling in New Zealand.”

Chris France says it is a sad day for New Zealand schools when the type of behaviour students are now displaying has its genesis in the teachers’ dispute.

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