PPTA president Jack Boyle said the teachers' union has had policy supporting teaching the Maori language as a universal subject since 2001, so it was excellent to see a political party taking concrete steps towards achieving it.
"Being able to learn te reo Māori will benefit every child in Aotearoa/New Zealand. Te reo Māori is part of the fabric of the economic, social and cultural history of all New Zealanders.
"Of course, having the right number of teachers of te reo is critical to the success of this policy. Currently, the demand for teachers of te reo Māori outstrips supply."
Mr Boyle said there was a clear need for more teachers with appropriate skills and qualifications.
"Māori teachers are needed to provide the source for the teaching of Maori language and culture in the public education system.
"They are strong advocates for te reo Māori within their schools,” he said.
“The policy is clear that capacity and supply issues must be addressed and we look forward to working together on a comprehensive plan.”
Related Stories
Comments
Like most Greens policies, this one is ill considered, misdirected and a waste of resources.
I wholly support children learning a second language, but let that be one which will be of some use to them after school life. Mandarin, Cantonese, French, Russian or German spring to mind.
But, only children who are already proficient in English (at the relevant class level) should be taught a second language. Too many children struggle with basic maths, science and English. Basics first, options second, Greens never.