Ratios should take into consideration the needs of the children and be adjusted when high needs children are on the role.

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

We have a child with very high needs who requires one-on-one nearly all the time. The Education Support Worker (ESW) had to return to her home country and since then we have had a child’s parent assist us for the designated hours. This means we have an unqualified member of staff working and whilst it frees up one of our staff we are always stretched because of the other children’s requirements. Ratios should take into consideration the needs of the children and be adjusted when high needs children are on the role.

What will it take to fix staff to student ratios?

More ESWs who are trained and experienced in the field, and qualified relievers to balance the ratios.

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

Quality interactions, higher level of safety, more time to spend with all children.