© Drazen- stock.adobe.com
<h2><span data-contrast="auto">A new campaign titled ‘Teaching shapes what matters most’ was launched by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand (TCA) at the end of Term 2. The campaign aims to lift public perception and respect for teachers by highlighting their expertise and skill. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></h2>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">The message ‘teaching shapes what matters most’ will reinforce the value of teachers as high skilled experts who develop young brains, countering the narrative that teachers are simply caretakers. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.schoolnews.co.nz/latest-print-issue/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><b>Read the latest print edition of <em>School News</em> online HERE.</b></a></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">The launch was accompanied by a </span><a href="https://www.teachingshapeswhatmattersmost.nz/" target="_blank"><span data-contrast="none">new website</span></a><span data-contrast="auto"> which includes teacher stories, expert insights and research; more content is planned in the coming weeks.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">The campaign responds to a 2023 survey conducted by TCA which found 90 percent of New Zealanders said they valued teaching, yet teachers still feel undervalued, underpaid and undermined. The TCA says their research shows this disconnection is due to the inaccurate perception that teaching is low-status and low-skilled. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">A spokesperson for TCA added that the campaign aims to address stereotypes and show teaching a new light. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“We know the work teachers do is complex, courageous, and deeply skilled. This campaign is a tribute to that &#8211; to the moments they spark curiosity, build resilience, and shape the neural connections that support lifelong learning.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<figure id="attachment_34185" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-34185" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img class="size-medium wp-image-34185" src="https://www.schoolnews.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/TC-TSWMM-digital_Facebook-banner-B-300x132.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="132" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-34185" class="wp-caption-text">Image: Supplied by TCA</figcaption></figure>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Since the campaign launched last month, feedback has been “deeply affirming” says the TCA. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“The video, stories, and research we are sharing have sparked pride and productive conversation. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“We hope that current teachers feel seen, respected, and supported. We hope that future teachers feel inspired to enter the profession knowing their hard work will be valued and celebrated. We know that there is still a long way to go, this is just the beginning.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">The campaign will be ongoing as part of TCA’s advocacy role. A spokesperson adds:</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“This is more than just messaging, it’s a movement. It invites all of Aotearoa to rethink what teaching really is and to stand with educators in shaping a better future.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Lesley Hoskin, Chief Executive of TCA says one of the council’s strategic priorities is “proudly communicating the value and expertise of teachers as true professionals.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“</span><span data-contrast="auto">Teaching demands high levels of knowledge, specialised skills, and strong personal qualities. When we recognise the true expertise of teaching, everyone benefits &#8211; learners, whānau, communities, and the future of Aotearoa. This message is a vital part of our commitment to strengthening the mana of teaching, so that teachers can change lives.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">To teachers, Hoskin says: </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">“You shape what matters most. Every moment you spark curiosity, build resilience, and guide learning, you&#8217;re not just teaching &#8211; you&#8217;re shaping lives. This campaign is for you and because of you, and in celebration of your expertise. We see you, we value you, and we stand with you.” </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>

Ministry of Education offices will see pickets on Tuesday as field staff, service managers and…
More than organising the day, timetables express the values of a school, and ideas about…
From bats and balls to professional equipment and specialist surfaces, the right sports equipment can…
Laser cutters & 3D printers from Makerspace NZ have greatly enhanced the efficiency and creative…
Teacher guide for the new PAT tuhituhi | writing assessment for Years 5 to 10…
Are stressed teachers contributing to the dysregulation we see in classrooms? Rebecca Thomas asks in…
This website uses cookies.
