I don’t have any sick leave left until June 2023… 10 days is not enough.

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

I don’t have any sick leave left until June 2023. I am not getting better because I am going to work unwell and am then exposed to more sickness. Its been a rough 2 years and I am worried as I am never 100 percent well. The impact on tamariki is I am not able to give them my full attention and be a quality teacher because I don’t have any energy. 10 days [of sick leave] is not enough.

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

An understanding of the exposure to germs we have in our workplaces. The nature of our mahi is regular close contact to all children’s bodily fluids. Respect and appreciate us and give us 20 days a year…please….so I can rest and get better.

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

I won’t go to work sick. I won’t be without pay for getting sick as a result of my work exposure. I won’t be stressed about paying the bills. I will be able to build my immunity and rest until I am better. I will return to work well and refreshed and be able to fully be present for the children.