One of Counties Manukau Kindergarten Association’s strategic goals is to sustain quality early childhood education in Counties Manukau for present and future generations. Over the past few years, we have collectively worked together to increase occupancy in our kindergartens and early learning centres, which, in turn, has increased the funding we receive from the Ministry of Education.

Because of this incredible effort, we can make significant investments back into our services by improving resources, updating our buildings and learning environments, and looking after our people.

Following this overall improvement in our financial results, the CMKA management team has recommended, and the CMKA Board of Management has unanimously approved, the introduction of a new and improved pay scale for all permanent support staff across CMKA. This is a significant step forward in recognising the incredible work these valuable team members do each day.

Our support staff work in a range of roles, including ECE Administrators, Teaching Assistants, Teacher Aides, Cooks, Learning Support Assistants, Van Service Drivers, Van Service Assistants, and Unqualified Teachers.

While the Kindergarten Associations Support Staff Collective Agreement (KASSCA) and corresponding Individual Employment Agreements have provided a strong foundation, we know they don’t fully reflect the true value and impact of our Support Staff’s mahi. After considerable discussion and review, we have decided to improve on these published rates.

We are pleased to say that on Monday, 2 June 2025, this new pay scale came into effect for all permanent CMKA Support Staff. The first-year base rate for permanent roles has increased, with further steps provided in individualised pay scales for different job roles. We are also introducing a long-service recognition for the amazing support staff who have worked for us for 10 years or longer.

This new pay scale reflects our deep appreciation for the vital role that our Support Staff play — with our tamariki, within our teams, and throughout the wider CMKA whānau and community.