When there are no relievers teachers are coming to work sick, or staying when they really should be at home.

What does the reliever shortage mean for you as a teacher, and the tamariki you teach?

We are constantly struggling to find relievers, there are days when there just doesn’t seem to be anyone available. Senior and head teachers are having daily conversations about how shortages can be stopped gapped by moving teachers from one kindergarten to another. When there are no relievers teachers are coming to work sick, or staying when they really should be at home. This means tamariki are at risk of receiving inconsistency and teachers whom are not at their best.

What will it take to fix the reliever shortage?

Get rid of the reliever [pay] cap! Acknowledge the value that relievers bring to the workforce. Future proof the workforce by making relieving a financially viable and attractive option for those entering and exiting the profession.

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

Tamariki will consistently have happy and healthy kaiako.

Relieving will be seen as a respected teaching option that would appeal to more resulting in increased availability.

Teachers will be able to take leave when they need, assured that their team aren’t left a teacher down.