We are exposed to way more sickness than most jobs, we need more sick leave.

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

Teachers are going to work sick! They are burned out and they are so so stressed. This is unsafe, it doesn’t address the need to look after our wellbeing and it makes us feel very undervalued. We are exposed to way more sickness than most jobs, we need more sick leave.

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

Give us 14 to 20 days as realistically who is only sick for 10 days a year? COVID alone has you off work for 7 to 10 days that’s your allocation gone.

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

Teachers who are healthy and well. Students who are healthy and well. Better situation all around.