As a mum of primary aged tamariki, I always run out of sick leave and am forced to take leave without pay.

What does the issue of sick leave mean for you as a teacher, and the tamariki you teach?

As a mum of primary aged tamariki, I always run out of sick leave and am forced to take leave without pay. Especially this year with the amount of sickness going around!

What will it take to fix sick leave for kindergarten teachers?

It would be great to have parity with other education sectors. 10 days is the minimum for everyone now. We need more being exposed to so much māuiui all the time!

When we fix sick leave, what impact will that change have on you as a teacher, and the tamariki you teach?

I can rest and get better instead of forcing myself back to work when I’m still not well, because I can’t afford to stay home any longer.