Newly-qualified teachers not paid enough to meet pay rates for work visas – principal

Checkpoint · May 21, 2026 · 3m

Too much admin and not enough pay. Principal Sam Mortimer from Greymouth High says both are barriers stopping foreign born or foreign qualified teachers coming to our schools. He said newly-qualified teachers aren't paid enough to meet minimum pay rates for work visas, and the paper work is excessive. Meanwhile, a New Zealander with Australian teaching qualifications says she nearly gave up because of the admin and fees. Education correspondent John Gerritsen has more.