5 July 2021

Newsletter Articles

Have a happy and restful “non contact” time!

Nga Mihi
Chrissy Wakeman
Orini Combined School

A message from Marcus

I was interested to read this week that the fee increase imposed by the NZ Teachers Council was found to be unlawful and they will have to backtrack and redo their consultation process around raising fees and justify their position. There was even talk of refunds. I was interested because what the Teach NZ was a classic example of an agency doing stuff to schools and with an expectation everyone complies, but in this instance, there was ‘push-back’ which resulted in a reconsideration of the demands. Schools and teachers too often have ‘stuff’ done to them and we tend to roll over and take it. Maybe there is a message in this example that when we genuinely feel there is an injustice happening, we shouldn’t just accept it. Question it, challenge it and ask for justification. Ask the ultimate question; “how is this going to make learning better for the kids in our school”.

Because this is my last Monday Mailout message as WPA president I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support over the last 18 months. I have thoroughly enjoyed the role and it has provided me with lots of opportunities be involved in the wider sector. I have learnt heaps. I would especially like to thank our hard-working executive group; Les, Drew, Nathan, Geoff, Linda, Chrissy, Hamish, Marie and Sandra. You do an amazing job for our members. The WPA is the envy of all associations in New Zealand and you should be very proud of what you achieve. Principals Supporting Principals is always our guiding principle and drives everything our association does. The great Tainui king Tawhio gave us the whakatoki:

Ki te Kotahi te kākaho ka whati, ke te kāpuia e kore e whati.

When a reed stands alone they are vulnerable, but together they are unbreakable

Kingi Tawhio

This message encapsulates what the WPA is about.

I feel have built up some strong relationships and friendships during my 21 years of principalship in the Waikato. I am going to rely on these as I move forward in my new role. There is real desire in the Ministry to engage better with the sector and key stakeholders. Rather than responding to poorly considered policy I am hoping our sector can be a part of shaping and developing policy through genuine consultation and engagement.

I know there is a will to change but it will not happen overnight. I already sense there will be many restrictions on what can and can’t be done, sadly the pay rises and extra classrooms I have promised my mates may not come through, not straight away anyway. Thank you for all the support you have given me, I am looking forward to the challenge.

I hope everyone has a restful term break.

Nga mihi

Marcus Freke
President

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WPA Dates

A notice from the Waikato AP/DP Association

We are excited to bring you our Waikato AP/DP Connections Day.

This event focuses on delving into ways of improving your wellbeing, managing stress and finding better balance in your life.

It is being held at the Boatshed Cafe out at Karapiro 9am - 3pm (you are welcome to stay on after the event and enjoy a drink with your colleagues if you would like).

There will be a guest speaker, spot prizes and the best company in the Waikato ;)

We only have 100 spots available so you will need to get in quick.

The cost will be around $120 - $150 depending on numbers.

Please note: Due to planning and budget constraints this is likely to be non-refundable. If you sign up and then can't make it (unless you can find someone to fill your spot) your school will be invoiced.

See the attached flier for more details and for the registration link.

We hope to see you there.

Waikato AP/DP Committee Members

Ngaa Mihi Nui
Nikki Willis

WPA Otago Study Tour

We have an excellent programme confirmed for this Study Tour – take a look!

Registrations are now open via the WPA website.

Laugh:

Financial members:

Please closely check the Financial Members list for your school name to ensure that you have paid your yearly subs!

2021 Subs are now due Click Here to pay your subs

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