Children are not numbers they come with needs, and different ages have different needs.

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

Ratio numbers need to be more realistic.

There are so many times where the ratios are hard to meet because of daily routines etc. For example, 2 teachers inside, one changing nappies and one settling an upset child. The care and safety of the other children are not being met and puts a lot of pressure on staff. Children are not numbers they come with needs, and different ages have different needs.

What will it take to fix staff to student ratios?

Change the ratios – more teachers to children.

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

Tamariki will get more time and care given to them and more time can be spent on teaching.