1. Is this part of a national move, or are the regions such as Heretaunga responding to their individual situations?
The proposal for change for Heretaunga Kindergartens is a response to our individual situation.
2. We understand that each centre has been given an individualised proposal and that the suggestions incorporate changes to staffing hours and in some cases moving from sessional to a six-hour day model. In some cases staffing hours have been proposed to be increased, is this correct?
Yes - each individual kindergarten and their community has received a proposal for change that is reflective of their individual circumstances. Currently Heretaunga Kindergartens offers a range of models, that includes a variety of sessional services. The proposal to move some services from a sessional model to a six-hour 8.30am to 2.30pm model will mean in some instances an increase in staffing hours.
3. There is criticism that the proposal is being presented as a "done deal". Was there any input from the kindergarten communities when formulating the proposal?
The proposal for change document is just that, a proposal. It has been written so staff and communities can see our thinking and from that we have encouraged them to provide us with their feedback, ideas, questions, challenges and concerns. This feedback will then assist us to make final decisions that are the most well informed and considered that they can be.
In 2016, staff attended a presentation where, as general manager I identified the trends of early childhood education nationally and regionally and specifically in relation to Heretaunga Kindergartens' role within the Hawke's Bay communities. Following this, I met individually with all 16 teaching teams and discussed their specific situation in relation to the overall performance of their kindergarten. Prior to the proposal for change document being developed, staff were consulted with and asked for feedback, which was taken into consideration during the document's preparation. The current consultation period is now an opportunity for communities to participate in discussions and provide us with their feedback.
5. There have been requests to extend the consultation period ... is this a possibility?
At this point we are working to the indicated consultation period of February 27 to March 21.
6. Parents have said they are willing to do their own fundraising, or pay more in fees or donations - could this work?
We want to ensure the association is financially successful while remaining committed to its core values. With this in mind it would not be a responsible decision by the association to place the responsibilities of financial viability solely on present or future whanau and communities.
7. Some centres are doing okay financially, they feel they are being penalised to prop up the others - is this the case?
All member kindergartens operate under the single entity of Heretaunga Kindergartens and it is the responsibility of the association to support its member kindergartens with prudent and responsible management. Moving forward all kindergartens will benefit from being part of a sustainable organisation, able to continue to deliver quality early childhood education in the Heretaunga region.
8. If these changes are not made what are the implications for the future of the kindergartens within the association? Are the kindergartens in their current form under threat?
If change does not occur the constraints the association is facing impact on its ability to remain viable now and in the years to come.
9. There is a feeling that the proposals are being driven by financial issues and not the children's needs - do you have a response to that?
Kindergartens have a proud heritage of providing communities with quality early childhood education. We have a commitment to fully trained and registered teachers and providing play-based learning environments that nurture children's development. At kindergarten learning experiences enrich children's lives and provides them with the knowledge, skills and dispositions they need to develop the skills for lifelong learning. Heretaunga Kindergartens inspire children to develop a range of skills with numbers, reading and writing to ensure the very best start for school. The proposal for change document is a reflection of the association's commitment to the values of the organisation which includes providing quality education for children that is accessible for whanau, parents and community.