Secondary teachers and NZEI support student climate action

PPTA and NZEI have welcomed the energy and engagement shown by New Zealand students in their fight for climate justice.

“Their determination and commitment are exactly what’s needed at this crucial moment. Students are showing the leadership that too many politicians are lacking”, PPTA president Jack Boyle said.

“We belong to the successive generations who have made this climate mess, and we are whakamā our young people are left to clean it up.”

While the strike will largely be attended by secondary school students, NZEI is aware that some primary students will attend with whānau.

“Today’s children will be the ones who have to live with the consequences of adults’ apathy and inaction over the past few decades. They’re rightly angry, and it’s about time politicians around the globe started thinking beyond the next electoral cycle,” said NZEI President Lynda Stuart.

Ms Stuart said having an understanding of environmental, political and social issues was part of the curriculum.

“Some primary-aged children are passionate about these issues and plan to attend climate change rallies with their families this Friday. It will be important that they liaise with their school about attending,” she said.

“I know many schools will use Friday’s action as a springboard for discussions about the environment and related issues.”

Ms Stuart has joined more than 1200 New Zealand professors, researchers and educators in signing an open letter supporting young citizens taking strike action around the globe this Friday.

PPTA vice-president Melanie Webber said: “As a union we know that change never happens by asking nicely. When politicians have their heads in the sand, protest action is sometimes the only way to get them to listen.”

“We stand by students in their demand for urgent climate action and a just transition. Kia kaha rangatahi!”