New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) principals’ council chairwoman and principal of Abbotsford School Stephanie Madden said the Government had failed to back its words with action as the union yesterday strongly rejected the latest offer in ongoing negotiations.
It follows a declined offer for union primary and area school teachers on Sunday.
Ms Madden said the offer failed to address key issues that had affected primary schools for many years.
"We are facing insufficient funding and staffing so we can provide what our students need."
"We are all struggling for resources.
"This is not sustainable and I worry about the future of our profession."
The issues did not just affect staff, but the pupils, too.
Throughout Covid-19 the Government had been happy to thank principals and school workers for their hard work, but were not prepared to back that sentiment with an offer, she said.
"We want more than words.
"Principals are prepared to take action."
With children to look after, striking was not a favourable option, but there were many other ways principals could push back, she said.
One way that could be achieved was by refusing to follow Ministry of Education timelines for changes, such as the upcoming refresh to the curriculum.
Negotiations for New Zealand Post Primary Teachers’ Association secondary school teachers began on Monday.
