I am currently at the top of my pay scale, and cannot afford to buy a house of my own.

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

To pay a teacher what they are worth, means teachers will stay in the profession they are passionate about. I am currently at the top of my pay scale, and cannot afford to buy a house of my own. Not can I afford to rent on my own, meaning a house sharing situation is my only option. Something is very, very wrong here.

What will it take to fix pay for kindergarten teachers?

A serious commitment to pay equity from the government and a pay increase that reflects inflation.

When we fix pay for kindergarten teachers, what impact will that change have on you as a teacher, and the tamariki you teach?

It will have a huge impact on my financial security, this in turn means I will be able to stay in the profession and continue to make a difference in young children’s lives.