Being a good employer
The role of the board is to employ school staff. Section 77A of the State Sector Act 1988 requires boards of trustees, as employers in the education service, to be 'good employers'.
To help create a positive learning environment for all students, one of the aims of the board is to create a workplace that attracts, retains and values its staff. The Secretary for Education is responsible for promoting, developing and monitoring equal employment opportunity (EEO) policies and programmes in the education service (section 77D of the State Sector Act 1988), and boards are required to follow these policies.
Boards are also required to ensure that all employees maintain proper standards of integrity, conduct and concern for the public interest and the well-being of students enrolled at their school.
Employment issues can be complex. The New Zealand School Trustees Association (NZSTA) provides comprehensive information and resources for trustees. Visit the NZSTA website for more information.
If you have concerns or want to know more about particular employment issues at your school, you should contact your local New Zealand School Trustees Association (NZSTA) personnel/industrial relations advisor for confidential assistance. The Ministry contracts NZSTA to provide this service at no charge to all boards of trustees (including non-members).
You will also find it helpful to visit the Ministry's section on school employment.
This site contains information on the employment conditions of principals, teachers and other employees in New Zealand primary, secondary and area schools.
If you need general information or clarification about employment terms and conditions please email us at: industrial.relations@minedu.govt.nz.