Tamariki need and deserve time!

What does the issue of staff to student ratios mean for you as a teacher, and the tamariki you teach?

I am constantly rushing from one ‘task’ to the other, tamariki need and deserve time! They need adults who have time; time to connect, time to listen, time to show each child that they are valued and respected. 1:10 ratio does not allow for a respectful amount of time!

What will it take to fix staff to student ratios?

Ratio of 1:5 for 2 year olds would give teachers time to meet the needs of tamariki as individuals with individual needs. It would create safer more inclusive environments where tamariki will have greater opportunity to thrive rather than just survive.

When we fix staff to student ratios, what impact will that change have on you as a teacher, and the tamariki you teach?

It will lower teacher stress levels. Teachers will be healthier. All tamariki deserve teachers who are healthy in mind, body and spirit. Teachers who are healthy have more capacity to care and connect with tamariki. Through strong healthy connections tamariki will thrive.