College comment

Ruapehu Bulletin, 26 March 1991, Page 4

College comment

BY RUAPEHU COLLEGE PRINCIPAL HARRY CAST 0 In a previous column I hinted that on the horizon impending changes in education could cause another period of disruption. The dramatic changes of Tomorrow's Schools put a considerable strain on both the Boards of Trustees and the teaching staff; along with parents we have been looking forward to a period of respite from externally generated change. The change of Government has brought some changes in direction and all schools are going to be affected. Firstly schools are directly affected by a series of reviews; these appear to be operating in secret with unpublished terms of reference. The groups which contribute considerably to the education system such as teacher unions and the Trustees have had little opportunity for consultation. Some of these reviews could have considerable impact on our primary schools. We should all be concerned if some of our smaller schools are threatened. Secondly the spectre of Bulk Funding faces the Boards of Trustees, this possible change

will placc undue burdens on the Trustees as they will have to balance the salary needs of staff with the cost of running the school. Does a school cut salaries to balance the books? Or do Boards have to further cut running expenses of the school to keep staff salaries and staffing levels at present levels? The third and final difficulty is the proposed changes of the Employment Contracts Bill. Along with most members of the community, educational employees are faced with the uncertainty of a new deregulated labour market. Safeguards and conditions that have ensured stability within the profession will be destroyed and there is a real danger that the gains in the quality of New Zealand education could be lost. The combination of these three factors indicate an education system under threat. All changes appear to be Treasury driven; decisions are being based on cost cutting measures - not based on the educational needs of the country. I am sure schools and the Trustees in the area will do their utmost to continue to provide the standard of education the Waimarino needs. Please support them.

Harry

Cast