Teachers on bullies: Help us too

Teachers want their share of protection from bullies and intimidating parents when the Government tackles disruption in schools.

The Post Primary Teachers Association (PPTA) welcomed yesterday's announcement by Education Minister Steve Maharey that the Government was putting in $9.5 million over four years to help schools tackle bullying and disruptive behaviour.

But PPTA president Debbie Te Whaiti said teachers were angry at the lack of a "systematic national approach" to the problem.

Behaviour in schools was deteriorating and teachers found themselves having to break up fights and deal with intimidation from students, parents and caregivers.

"Teachers have the right to be safe in their workplace, just as students have the right to feel safe in schools," said Ms Te Whaiti.

Student behaviour was one of the main barriers to attracting and retaining teachers.

Ms Te Whaiti said the PPTA hoped the announcement would be a step towards supporting schools with a co-ordinated, national approach.

Mr Maharey said when he announced the new funding that the Government recognised schools could not deal with the situation alone.

"While every school has a responsibility to care for its students ... parents and communities also have a responsibility and this new funding will help to reinforce that."

Mr Maharey said a substantial programme was already in place, including the Student Engagement Initiative and specialist teachers in schools.

"We will consult the sector over the next 12 months about the next steps."

The extra funding will be delivered in the May 18 Budget.


Making it safe

$9.5 million will go towards:
* Helping ensure children with severe behaviour problems can remain in school.
* Information-sharing between schools on solutions.
* Early detection of children at risk of developing severe behavioural problems.

- NZPA