Kāhui Ako – Communities of Learning – were established in 2014 by a National-led government to group schools together to address common issues. The scheme offered additional pay for one principal to oversee each group and for select teachers to share best practices between and within schools. Despite being one of the most expensive school initiatives, the scheme has faced criticism, with supporters praising its effectiveness in promoting collaboration among schools while opponents argue that the funds could be better utilized elsewhere.
The report obtained by RNZ outlines a draft Cabinet paper seeking approval to disestablish the program. It proposes presenting the paper to Cabinet in March and making a formal decision to discontinue Kāhui Ako by April. The document reveals that there are currently 220 Kāhui Ako involving 1958 schools and 1506 early learning centers, with over 4000 teachers receiving additional pay for their roles in the scheme.
While disestablishing the program is expected to cost $39 million over two years, it is projected to save $118 million annually by 2027. The report highlights that principals leading Kāhui Ako receive an extra $25-30,000, teachers working across schools get $16,000, and those working within schools receive $8000 each. Additionally, schools receive funding for relief teachers and maintenance grants for participating in a Kāhui Ako.
The report acknowledges potential risks associated with the plan, including legal challenges, industrial action, and reduced collaboration between schools. However, handwritten notes on the document suggest that the majority of teachers and principals support the decision to disestablish the scheme. The report emphasizes the benefits of reallocating the funds to services aligned with government priorities, allowing teachers and principals to focus on their primary roles, and freeing up relief teachers.
The document outlines a complex procedure for cutting the scheme, including obtaining Cabinet approval and removing various Kāhui Ako teaching roles and allowances. It notes that the full savings are expected to be realized by the start of the 2027 school year. While some principals and teachers have mixed views on the program, with some clusters successful and others not, there is a consensus that learning support requires increased funding.
The Kāhui Ako scheme has faced scrutiny in recent years, with calls for its termination and reports of limited success. Despite the challenges, education insiders believe that with more support and direction from the Ministry of Education, the program could have achieved greater success.
