Scoop  Politics

8th February 2011

Government Sticks With Failed Education Policy

The education sector union NZEI Te Riu Roa says if the Prime Minister is serious about “giving kiwi kids a fair crack at life”, the government should stop sticking with failed education policy.

In his opening speech to parliament John Key has repeated a string of tired policies which New Zealanders are increasingly unconvinced by.

“How can Mr Key say he values early childhood education when his government is mercilessly cutting funding to those services trying to provide the best early education for our children? asks NZEI President Ian Leckie.

“The cuts are also putting financial pressure on families across New Zealand. Early childhood education should be about investment. If Mr Key wants to turn it into an economic argument he should remember that investment in early childhood education brings huge economic and social returns,” says Mr Leckie.

Creating an education system which delivers for everyone and identifies those children who are falling behind are also stated government priorities.

“The irony is that we already have a world class education system which $36 million worth of National Standards will add absolutely no value to,” says Ian Leckie.

“Let’s see some meaningful investment in education– not politically-driven policy which has nothing to do with what’s best for children and their learning.”

ENDS

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