Source: Post Primary Teachers Association (PPTA)
Chris Abercrombie – James Hargest College
Having had the experience of working in a range of schools and in different areas of Aotearoa New Zealand, I have dealt with the variety and breadth of pressures that we as educators face. With the continuing impacts of Covid, the NCEA change package, the Curriculum Refreshes, and the prolonged industrial round – we find ourselves having to deal with an ever-increasing workload.
In my roles as JVP and acting President, I feel that I have gained the experience needed to fight for members at this time of great change. I have been a strong voice, one that reflects the diversity of experience of teachers in Aotearoa New Zealand.
I understand the many obstacles and concerns we face in our daily working lives, but I still believe teaching is an amazing career. It is a career that I love, and I’m energised by the joy and sense of pride that we all have as teachers within our classrooms and schools.
We are on this journey together and if we continue to move forward together as one, success will take care of itself.
We must continue to ensure that every teacher – from the top of Te Tai Tokerau to the very bottom of Te Waipounamu – has what they need. Support for teachers should not be dictated by the postcode lottery. By investing in our teachers, we are investing in the future for all New Zealanders. When we stand together in solidarity, we bring out the best.
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