The Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand (TCA) has initiated the Unteach Racism School Leader Stories project, designed to support teachers and schools in recognising and tackling racism within their practices.
School leaders will share authentic accounts of how they confronted and addressed institutional racism in their schools. These stories highlight the challenges they encountered, the approaches they employed to overcome them, and the outcomes of their efforts.
The series debuted on Thursday, 12 June, at Frankley School, showcasing how the school is actively addressing unconscious bias against ākonga Māori and highlighting its participation in the Māori Achievement Collective.
The launch was attended by TCA’s deputy chief executive Tamahau Te Rau (Whanganui, Taranaki Whanui, Ngāti Tuwharetoa, Ngāti Raukawa, Nga Wairiki, Ngāti Apa) and senior advisor Rose-Anne London, alongside whānau, community members, teachers and kaimahi.
“This series was born out of a desire to amplify the voices of those already doing the work – leaders who are challenging racism in their schools and communities. By sharing their stories, we hope to inspire others to reflect, act, and join the movement to unteach racism,” senior advisor Rose-Anne London said.
TCA chief executive Lesley Hoskin states that the organisation is responding to requests from sector leaders to support and drive meaningful change.
“The Teaching Council is responding to requests from principals and leaders to support them to lead change and tackle systemic racism in the education system. Many are already doing incredible work to celebrate diversity and foster belonging. The School Leader Stories series builds on this momentum of this work launched in 2018, offering real-life examples of leadership and courage to inspire others to take action.”
Case studies will be accessible in written, audio, and/or video formats through the Unteach Racism website, app, and other digital platforms.
New content will be released over time.