Early childhood teacher targets welcomed

Early childhood teacher targets welcomed- Publication date: 19 October 2006

The 50 percent target for qualified teachers in early childhood education (ECE) will serve children and families well, says Te Tari Puna Ora o Aotearoa/NZ Childcare Assocation Chief Executive, Nancy Bell.

The Minister of Education, the Hon Steve Maharey, today announced that 50 percent of teachers in ECE centres must hold a recognised qualification by the end of 2007 if centres are to retain their licences.

The Association is one of the largest providers of qualified early childhood teachers and has members in nearly 1,000 ECE centres throughout New Zealand.

"Quality early childhood education is vital to give New Zealand children the best start in life", says Nancy Bell.

"A workforce of qualified ECE teachers is a critical ingredient in quality education."

"These teacher targets are not new but the Minister’s announcement will provide clarity for the ECE sector.

"The improvements to teacher-child ratios, also announced, are welcomed by the Association as important quality improvements," Nancy Bell said.