Primary Principals Union Secures Pay Rise Without Strikes

The **Primary Principals Collective Bargaining Union** has successfully negotiated a pay increase for its members, avoiding any industrial action. Following four months of discussions with the **Ministry of Education**, the union has accepted a **2.5 percent** pay rise for this year, with an additional **2.1 percent** increase set for next year. This agreement, announced last week by **Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche**, will span a total of **26 months**, as reported by RNZ.

A significant turnout was observed during the voting process, with **85 percent** of the union’s **515 members** participating. Of those who cast their votes, an overwhelming **95 percent** supported the new agreement. Union president **Mark Ellis** emphasized that constructive communication and a commitment to good-faith negotiations were key to reaching this outcome.

Ellis stated, “Our membership has gone and accepted it as a good offer. We can appreciate that we’re in a crisis for living costs and living wages. Our principals want to do their jobs, be in front of kids, and support teachers.” He noted that the absence of threats to strike action contributed positively to the negotiations.

Future Pay Considerations for Principals

An important aspect of the agreement is the commitment to explore tenure-based pay options. This model would allow principals to be compensated based on their experience rather than solely on the size of their schools. Ellis remarked, “There’s an opportunity to continue dialogue with the ministry around remuneration for principals under areas of experience, not just the size of the school.”

Despite this successful agreement for primary principals, not all educational leaders are avoiding industrial action. Members of the **New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI Te Riu Roa)**, which represents over **40,000 education workers** including teachers and principals, are planning a nationwide strike on **October 23, 2023**. This upcoming strike highlights ongoing tensions within the education sector, as many educators continue to advocate for better pay and working conditions.

As negotiations evolve, the outcome for primary principals signals a positive development in labor relations within New Zealand’s education system, potentially paving the way for further discussions on remuneration and working conditions across the sector.