Kohanga Reo Kaiako - Job outlook

Kohanga reo numbers remain stable

The total number of children enrolled in early childhood education (ECE) rose from 118,367 in 1990 to 180,000 in 2003, although this growth has not been replicated in kohanga reo enrolments. In 1990, 10,108 children were registered as attending a kohanga reo; this number rose very slightly to 10,857 in 2003.

In addition, the number of kohanga reo establishments, ECE licensed and ECE licence exempt kohanga and nga puna kohungahunga, dropped by 46 to 570 over the same period.

Maori early childhood education encouraged

There is room for enrolment growth and a subsequent increase in the number of people employed as kohanga reo kaiako. In 2003, only 45% of Maori children were attending early childhood education outside of the home. As a result, the Ministry of Education and the Kohanga Reo National Trust are encouraging more Maori children into early childhood education.

Both groups met in 2002 and a series of recommendations were made to boost these figures. These recommendations were formalised in a tripartite agreement in 2003 between the Ministries of Education and Maori Affairs and the National Trust. The parties agreed to work together to:

promote participation and quality learning in te reo Maori within kohanga reo for kohanga whanau.

support the development of strong, skilled and vibrant whanau that contribute positively to society (whanau development).

support and strengthen the capacity of whanau to ensure quality services are delivered in kohanga reo that benefit mokopuna.

work collaboratively with other sectors in the community where possible to ensure the health and wellbeing of mokopuna is maintained.

strengthen relationships with iwi, hapu and kaupapa Maori-based education sector organisations in recognition of each other's respective aspirations for the early learning of Maori children.

Given that it is easier to teach languages to young children than it is to older students, this agreement recognised the work of kohanga reo kaiako is key to achieving the preservation of the Maori language and culture.

A positive future

Despite the lack of growth in kohanga enrolments compared to overall ECE enrolments, the future for kohanga reo kaiako is reasonably positive. The Maori language and culture is undergoing a renaissance and there is a growing interest amongst Maori to play a part in ensuring that the language and culture is not lost.

Although training requirements have not changed, the Whakapakari Tino Rangatiratanga qualification required by kaiako to progress to senior levels is being taken through the New Zealand Teachers Council (NZTC) accreditation process. Once complete, kaiako will be able to register with the NZTC. The qualification may also be given degree status in the near future.

Turnover high

Turnover among kaiako is high as the ability to teach te reo Maori is highly prized in the private and public sectors where they are often able to earn more money.

Written 27/05/2004 - Updated 04/05/2005)