Why am I constantly putting my (and my families) wellbeing second to my professional duty when my duty depends on my health?

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

This winter has been very testing for me as a professional. I’m sending home children who are sick and deliberating over my own wellbeing when I’m obviously coughing, sneezing and dealing with migraines. I have no sick days now and have just come out of isolation with COVID.

At what point do we put professional health as a priority and provide the time and relief staff to do this? Why am I constantly putting my (and my families) wellbeing second to my professional duty when my duty depends on my health? It just doesn’t make sense to me.

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

Realistic sick leave hours, 10 days is not enough. Relief teachers that can respond to team needs. Teachers tend to put off being sick when they know there is no one to step in for the children.

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

Less guilt for being human! A healthy teacher, consistent care in centre with reliable relief teachers. Happy and healthy learning environments for tamariki.