Ministry of Education announces further job loss proposals

Friday, 3 May 2024

The Ministry of Education is proposing to reduce its workforce by 755 fulltime equivalent positions ‒ 190 more than it proposed in April.

In an update on its website, ministry secretary Iona Holsted said that on Thursday it had started consulting on change proposals with two teams, corporate and digital and business services. Last week proposals were also sent to its education workforce and Māori education teams.

So far, the total number of proposed job losses, Holsted said yesterday, was 755 fulltime equivalent positions, with 316 jobs already vacant.

“I know the magnitude of these proposed changes is significant, and I again acknowledge the very real impacts they have for you and your families,” Holsted said in the update. “Please continue to seek the support you need and take care of each other.”

In April, proposals had been given to its policy and property teams, with its total job loss proposals at that time amounting to 565 fulltime equivalent positions, with 225 roles then already vacant.

Holsted has previously said that the proposed changes would not have direct impact on services to children, teachers and principals.

Yesterday Education Minister Erica Stanford, with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, announced a $67m commitment, as part of Budget 2024, to introduce a structured literacy programme in schools.

The Government’s drive to find 6.5-7.5% in savings has seen ministries announce job cuts across the board, with the total job loss announcements totalling more than 3000.