Removal of NCEA fees a win for every child in New Zealand
The removal of NCEA fees is a step towards bringing out the best in every child who attends New Zealand schools, PPTA president Jack Boyles says.
“Anything that makes school more equitable for every child in New Zealand is something we support wholeheartedly,” he said.
Many of the changes proposed in the NCEA overhaul are things PPTA has advocated for over a number of years.
“It is particularly pleasing to see the immediate removal of NCEA and scholarship fees, as this has been a barrier to gaining a certificate for some students.”
“An acknowledgment of the need for better resources and supports, particularly for teaching and learning for Māori, is welcomed,” he said.
“We can also see where considerable effort has been made to try and reduce excessive workload for teachers and students.”
The changes will provide more certainly for teachers, Jack said. “Amongst the considerable changes proposed in our education sector, we are pleased to have some clarity about the direction of the NCEA.”
There is a lot of work to be done by schools to allow these changes to be implemented however, Jack said.
“We await with interest the detail of the implementation plan and support for teachers to manage the increased workload that will accompany these changes.”
ENDS