Negotiations must be settled to avoid two-day teacher strike, say National

Pay negotiations must be settled between the Government and primary teachers to avoid a two-day teacher strike, National’s Education spokesperson Nikki Kaye says.

Primary teachers and principals walked off the job on Wednesday, calling for better pay and conditions.

NZEI Te Riu Roa President Lynda Stuart said straw polls of the crowds at the protest rallies around the countries showed there was support for a two-day strike, "but this is only indicative of feeling, not a decision".

"We expect there will be a new negotiating mandate from the Ministry based on the strong show of support. We will take any new proposals out to members to consider before any decision would be made about any further industrial action," she said.

Ms Kaye said "National firmly believes that the Government would be more likely to resolve the standoff if it makes a clear statement that they will look to reduce child teacher ratios for years four to eight".

"The Government had very clear signals on the upcoming negotiations and changes for the education sector and instead it prioritised everything but. Now it must face up to this and avert further strike action before it hurts students and families."

In Question Time yesterday, National MP Simeon Brown asked Minister of Education Chris Hipkins what the likelihood of a two-day teacher strike would be.

"Discussion of further strike action is premature, and I've yet to receive any advice on it," Mr Hipkins said.

"The Government's committed to going back to the negotiating table with teachers and principals next week. We are listening to their concerns and are committed to good-faith bargaining."

Mr Hipkins said advice he has received on primary teacher concerns were that "national standards led to a significant increase in the workload without any corresponding increase in student achievement” and that there is significant demand for learning support".