Ōtaki National MP Tim Costley met with Horowhenua kaiako at Arohanui Kindergarten this week to discuss concerns about possible changes to early childhood education.

Kaiako from Fanau Pasifika Kindergarten, Parsons Avenue Kindergarten, Arohanui Kindergarten, Te Manawanui Kindergarten, Taitoko Kindergarten and Betty Montford Kindergarten attended (pictured above), and teachers were clear about the threats to children’s wellbeing and education from the proposals.

Fiona Hirini, Te Manawanui Kindergarten Head Teacher said it was a successful event. “It went really well; he came with an open mind to the discussion.” She says Tim Costley, promised to pass on their concerns to the Minister, Erica Stanford.

The teachers were passionate in advocating for qualified teachers in particular and gave examples about how changes would affect kindergarten.

Fiona says those who attended came away with a feeling that they had a voice and they had been listened to. They also told their MP that they expect him to advocate on their behalf, and to come back with a response from the Minister.

Fiona encourages other kaiako to contact their MP and make sure they communicate about the threats to our sector posed by deregulation.