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Less than a fifth of teachers want to become principals, survey finds

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Tue, 27 Jan 2026, 10:27am
Photo / 123 rf
Photo / 123 rf

Less than a fifth of teachers want to become principals, survey finds

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Tue, 27 Jan 2026, 10:27am

There’s a belief the Government and experienced principals need to step up to secure the future of the profession.  

A recent New Zealand Council for Educational Research survey found just 18% of teachers want to become principals, while 50% said they definitely wouldn't. 

It's after Newstalk ZB revealed one in five principals quit within a year. 

Principals' Federation President Jason Miles told Ryan Bridge as well as teaching experience, you also need finance, employment, crisis management, and relationship skills.  

He says principalship is a challenging but rewarding role, and teachers are sometimes so busy they miss the opportunity. 

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