In May 2023, NZEI Te Riu Roa distributed its inaugural survey of early childhood education (ECE) kaiako and kaimahi to the sector. A total of 4174 early childhood education kaiako and kaimahi completed the survey, making it easily the largest ECE workforce survey in Aotearoa in recent years.

It was encouraging that the survey received such a strong response, but not surprising. The issues plaguing the ECE sector in recent years have been well publicised. Stories of teacher shortages, huge workloads, poor pay, and unworkable and unsafe ratios will all be familiar to anyone in the sector. The impressive response to this survey is testament to the dedication of ECE kaiako and kaimahi to improving outcomes for ākonga.