Source: NZ Principals Federation
Open Letter follows:
He tono kia rongo, kia kōrero tahi, kia whakatika – A call for listening, dialogue, and action
Tēnā koe Minister,
On behalf of the Howick and Pakuranga Principals’ Association (HPPA), representing primary school leaders across Tāmaki Makaurau’s eastern suburbs, we write to express our collective concern regarding the current scale, pace, and direction of education policy reform.
The ongoing change overload facing schools is unsustainable and places at risk both the quality of education for our ākonga and the wellbeing of tumuaki and kaiako.
HPPA fully endorses the recent statements and positions of the New Zealand Principals’ Federation (NZPF), our regional colleagues and other peak bodies regarding the key areas of reform currently before the sector.
Howick and Pakuranga principals are deeply concerned about the continued revisions to the English and Mathematics/Statistics curricula, this being the third significant change within two years. These repeated adjustments have led to confusion, workload pressure, and uncertainty for schools already stretched by competing demands.
We strongly urge that the timeframe for implementation be extended until at least Term 3, 2026, to provide schools with adequate time to engage with, unpack, and meaningfully embed these changes through high-quality professional learning and development.
Regarding the broader curriculum areas and the move toward a knowledge-rich curriculum, the current implementation timelines are unworkable. Success requires authentic, on-the-ground engagement with those who know what works best for ākonga, principals, teachers, and leadership teams. While we acknowledge the resources provided, the pace and sequencing of reform are unrealistic.
In alignment with NZPF, HPPA supports the following actions for principals:
● Refrain from engaging with the Ministry of Education on the 19 October curriculum changes to English and Mathematics/Statistics until sector concerns are addressed.
● Call for the implementation of the Mathematics and Statistics curriculum to be extended to Term 3, 2026.
● Continue any existing PLD commitments linked to the 2024 draft English, Mathematics, and Statistics curricula for Years 0-10.
HPPA is deeply concerned by the amendment to the Education and Training Act that has removed Te Tiriti o Waitangi responsibilities from school boards.
Our association and members are firmly committed to Te Tiriti. That commitment is reflected in our practice, policies, and community partnerships. Schools across the Howick and Pakuranga area have been intentional in embedding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in ways that strengthen relationships, inclusion, and outcomes for all learners.
Any move to weaken these responsibilities would be a significant step backward in our shared journey toward equity and partnership in education.
HPPA strongly opposes the proposed changes to the Teaching Council’s governance structure and role. Reducing elected representation or shifting professional regulation under direct Ministry control undermines the independence and credibility of our profession.
An independent, sector-led Teaching Council is essential to maintain trust, uphold professional standards, and ensure that decisions about teacher conduct, development, and registration remain in the hands of those who understand education best.
Minister, Howick and Pakuranga principals are not opposed to reform. Our concern lies with the pace, sequencing, and lack of authentic consultation that currently characterises education change. Sustainable, research-informed, and collaboratively developed reform is essential if it is to achieve lasting improvement for ākonga.