I never have any [sick leave] left by the end of the year and will often come to work unwell

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

With 10 days sick leave I have to cover my own sickness as well as that of my children, all whilst being exposed to numerous viruses every single day. I never have any left by the end of the year and will often come to work unwell.

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

We require more sick leave than the standard amount provided to all employees in NZ given the higher level of exposure on a daily basis and working so closely with young children.

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

It means I can stay home when I am sick and give 100% to the children I teach every single day I am at work.