Primary Principals Gain Pay Rise After Negotiations with Ministry

The Primary Principals Collective Bargaining Union has successfully negotiated a pay rise for its members without resorting to strike action. Following four months of discussions with the Ministry of Education, the union accepted a pay increase of 2.5 percent for this year, followed by an additional 2.1 percent increase next year. The deal, presented last week by Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche, will span a total of 26 months.

Of the union’s 515 members, approximately 85 percent participated in the voting process, with a remarkable 95 percent expressing support for the new agreement. Union president Mark Ellis attributed the success to constructive communication and a commitment to good-faith negotiations.

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Our membership has gone and accepted it as a good offer,”

Ellis stated. He acknowledged the ongoing challenges posed by rising living costs and wages, emphasizing that the principals are primarily focused on their roles in front of students and supporting teachers. According to Ellis, the absence of strike threats facilitated continued negotiations, allowing for the successful resolution.

An essential aspect of the agreement includes a commitment to explore tenure-based pay options. This potential framework would enable principals to be compensated based on their experience rather than solely on the size of their schools. “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,” Ellis added.

Despite this successful negotiation, not all principals may avoid 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 still expected to strike nationwide on October 23. This impending action underscores the ongoing challenges and negotiations within the education sector as various groups seek to address their concerns regarding pay and working conditions.

The recent developments reflect a significant moment in educational negotiations, highlighting the importance of dialogue and cooperation between educational unions and government bodies. As the situation continues to evolve, the implications for the broader educational landscape in New Zealand remain to be seen.