Stanford gets A for spin, F for substance – Labour

Erica Stanford is chasing headlines instead of putting kids first.

“Today’s re-announcement contained more spin exercise than substance,” Labour’s education spokesperson Ginny Andersen said.

“Where’s the detail? The feedback from the experts? What role do exams play? And what will it cost? Schools wanted clarity – all they got was a press release.

“Parents deserve certainty over their children’s learning and confidence they aren’t being left behind. Education has to work for all students, not just the privileged few. It must be guided by evidence and expertise, not rushed through for political headlines.

“The fact the Minister has managed to unite education experts against these changes shows just how hollow the consultation process has been.

“Schools are exhausted with all the cheap and imported slogans from the Minister. They’ve warned her that a one-size-fits-all approach will leave many students behind – particularly Māori and Pasifika, but Erica Stanford knows better according to her.

“Education changes should be done with teachers and principals, not to them. We already have a forecast shortage of 710 secondary teachers and the last thing they need is another reason to cross the ditch, as many have done.

“Our children’s education shouldn’t be guided by political ideology and is far too important to get wrong,” Ginny Andersen said.