Statement of Intent 2008-2011

Contents

Foreword
Part 1 Strategic Overview
   Purpose of the Council
   Strategic Alignment
   Strategic Environment
   Strategic Focus
   Goal 1: Strengthen the quality of teacher education graduates
   Goal 2: Strengthen the induction of provisionally registered teachers
   Goal 3: Review and strengthen teaching standards for entry to the profession and for on-going registration
   Goal 4: Promote effective leadership for learning
   Governance
   Monitoring of Performance
   Assessment of Contribution to Outcomes
   Measuring Achievement
   Internal Environment
   Strategic Information Technology Development
   Financial Strategy
   Sustainability
   2.1 Forecast Statement of Service Performance
      Summary of outputs to be produced by the New Zealand Teachers Council
   2.1.1 Output 1 – Teacher Registration
      Objectives of Output
      Key Performance Indicators
   2.1.2 Output 2 – Maintenance of Professional Standards
      Objectives of Output
      Key Performance Indicators
   2.1.3 Output 3 Professional Leadership
      Objectives of Output
      Key Performance Indicators
   2.1.4 Output 4 - Teacher Education
      Objectives of Output
      Key Performance Indicators
   2.1.5 Output 5 – Non Teacher Police Vetting
      Objectives of Output
      Key Performance Indicators
   2.2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, assumptions and any other relevant information underlying Prospective Financial Statements
   2.3 Prospective Financial Statements
      Significant Assumptions
      NEW ZEALAND TEACHERS COUNCIL PROSPECTIVE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
      New Zealand Teachers Council Prospective Statement of Movements in Equity
      NEW ZEALAND TEACHERS COUNCIL PROSPECTIVE FINANCIAL POSITION
      NEW ZEALAND TEACHERS COUNCIL PROSPECTIVE CASH FLOW STATEMENT
   3.1 The Organisation
   3.2 The Council
   3.3 Risk Management
   3.4 Risk Management and Mitigation Strategies
      3.4.1. Capability and capacity
      3.4.2. Funding adequacy
      3.4.3. Stakeholder relationships
      3.4.4. Information & Communication Technology systems upgrade
      3.4.5. By Election
      3.4.6. Unexpected increase in complaints about competency and fitness to teach
      3.4.7. Teachers remain outside the registration system
      3.4.8. Disaster Response
   Appendix 1 Legislative Framework and Governance
   Appendix 2 Functions of the Council
   Appendix 3 Current Staff Profile (March 2008)
   Appendix 4 Seven Elements of a Good Employer Programme

 

Foreword

There is international consensus that quality teaching has the most critical impact on students' learning. Good outcomes for learners rely on teachers who have the skills, knowledge and dispositions to connect effectively with all learners. In its professional leadership role, the Council will focus on strengthening the quality of teaching to enhance the learning of all children and young people. Over the next three years this focus will be concentrated on initial teacher education and newly qualified teachers.

Initial Teacher Education

The Council has reviewed the process by which initial teacher education programmes are currently approved. Using the findings of this review and in the light of the Graduating Teacher Standards that were promulgated in 2007, the Council will revise the guidelines and processes for the approval of teacher education programmes that lead to registration.

The Council will also continue the next stage of its research project to identify the particular requirements for graduates of Māori medium initial teacher education programmes that will inform the approval/reapproval processes of these tertiary programmes.

Quality Induction for all Provisionally Registered Teachers

In the first two years of teaching all newly qualified teachers can expect to receive substantial advice and guidance before they are assessed for full registration as a teacher. The Council's research on practices that operate in the sector has identified examples of best practice which can inform future induction processes. It has also emphasised the important role well trained mentor teachers play in supporting the professional development of newly qualified teachers. As well as piloting a variety of induction models in a range of contexts from early childhood, primary, secondary and Māori medium settings, the Council will pilot models of mentor teacher development and support.

The Review and Implementation of Revised Standards for Granting Full Registration for Provisionally Registered Teachers and the Renewal of Practising Certificates

The transition from provisional to full registration marks the admission of an individual as a full member of the teaching profession. In the Council's review of the Satisfactory Teacher Dimensions, it will consult with teachers and key stakeholders to receive feedback on the revised criteria required of fully registered practising teachers and the processes by which they are applied in practice. The current categories of registration of teachers will also be reviewed to determine if they are fit for purpose in an increasingly diverse and complex education system.

Professional leaders play a critical role in supporting the induction of provisionally registered teachers and their movement from transition to full registration. In particular, the Council will progress the development of leadership initiatives to support the early childhood and Māori medium sectors in this important role.

The Council continues to improve the efficiency of its registration system. It will continue to work with employers to ensure only teachers with appropriate authorisation are employed. This will be enhanced through the Council's ability to share appropriate data from its teacher register with the Ministry of Education's payroll information. Currently there is an international shortage of qualified and trained teachers. The Council is working with the New Zealand Qualifications

Authority and the Ministry of Education to enable the registration and smooth transition for suitably qualified international teacher applicants seeking employment in New Zealand.

Every three years, the bulk of New Zealand teachers seek to renew their practising certificates. In 2008, the Council is well positioned to meet this challenge. The teacher registration database (TCR) is well embedded and is allowing timely and accurate processing of registration applications. Further enhancements of the TCR system will be sought to eventually allow the provision of fully online registration. This will probably require legislative changes.

In ensuring that it maintains professional standards through robust but fair disciplinary procedures, the Council plans to have a third Complaints Assessment Committee panel operating by the second half of 2008.

The Council continues to provide input into the development of the education sector information and communications technology (ICT) initiatives. Through this collaborative work with the sector, the Council will gain valuable assistance to comply with the legislation for the management of its documentation and records by 2010.

Working with management, Council members provide strategic direction and oversight on the effectiveness of the Council's operations, including financial risk management. In October 2008, the Council will conduct its third election for four teacher representatives. The Council will continue its review of the current governance structure and composition and plans to consult with key stakeholders on this review.

The Council continues to benchmark its practice internationally to promote and maintain the highest professional standards possible. In particular, it meets regularly with Australian teacher registration and accreditation authorities to facilitate the movement of teachers between the two countries under the Trans Tasman Mutual Recognition Agreement.

The Council's work will only be achieved with the ongoing support of teachers, professional leaders and other key stakeholders and, to this end the Council is committed to working in close partnership with the teaching profession.

Kathy Smith

Barbara Arnott
Chair Chair: Audit & Risk Management Committee
Date 30 May 2008 Date 30 May 2008

Part 1 Strategic Overview

Purpose of the Council

The purpose of the New Zealand Teachers Council is to provide professional leadership in teaching, enhance the professional status of teachers in schools and early childhood education, and contribute to a safe and high quality teaching and learning environment for children and other learners.
Section 139AA Education Act 1989

In fulfilling this purpose, the Council promotes the profession of teaching and encourages teachers to strive to attain the highest standards of professional service.

Through the promotion of professional learning and ensuring the maintenance of professional standards that attract and retain high calibre teachers to careers in education, the Council influences the quality of teaching, and consequently the educational outcomes for children and young people in New Zealand.

The Council is positioned so that it can work interdependently with the Government, the profession and agencies involved in the sector, in the best interests of the teaching profession and learners.

Strategic Alignment

The education agencies are expected to contribute their collective strategic leadership to help achieve the overarching education goal:

To build a world-leading education system that equips all New Zealanders with the knowledge, skills and values to be successful citizens in the 21st century.

The mission and overarching purpose of the Council is to lead and support high standards for the teaching profession so that all learners have the opportunities they need to achieve their goals. Through this focus on quality teaching, the Council's strategies and operations complement those of the other agencies.

The following education initiatives help shape and inform the strategic goals and business plan of the Council:

  • Ka Hikitia – Managing for Success
  • Pasifika Education Plan
  • Early Childhood Education Strategic Plan
  • The New Zealand Curriculum (2007)
  • Schools Plus

The Council's contribution to these initiatives is to emphasise the importance of effective teaching for all children and young people. Through its professional projects and quality assurance mechanisms, the Council will also seek to influence the capability of teachers to meet the challenges of changes to teaching and learning contexts. There will be a particular focus on interventions to better meet the needs of Māori learners and Pasifika learners.

Strategic Environment

The Council operates within the broad educational environment. Currently in New Zealand, the teaching profession has over 90,000 teachers who are registered with current practising certificates.

There are a number of initiatives and challenges facing New Zealand teachers over the next three years. These include:

  • the increasing societal and educational demands on the teaching profession and the opportunity for diverse teaching roles
  • the impact of international teacher mobility on the New Zealand teaching workforce
  • the wide disparities in levels of student achievement
  • responding to the educational needs and aspirations of Māori
  • responding to the educational needs and aspirations of Pasifika students
  • the implementation of the early childhood education strategic plan, Pathways to the Future: Ngā Huarahi Arataki
  • the increasingly diverse ethnic composition of our society and changing population statistics
  • the implementation of the tertiary reforms in the Government's Tertiary Education Strategy
  • the shift of location of Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programmes from stand alone institutions to the university sector
  • the embedding of the Graduating Teacher Standards into ITE programmes
  • the implementation of the new school curriculum
  • strategic initiatives of the Government, such as Ka Hikitia, Schools Plus, and Secondary Futures
  • the issues and challenges raised by recent educational research initiatives such as Learning to Teach (NZTC), the Teaching for Learning Research Initiatives (NZCER) and the Best Evidence Syntheses (MoE).

The Council recognises that developing effective responses to these issues requires a collaborative and integrated approach within the education sector. In particular, the Council has opportunities to influence the nature of teaching, and thereby outcomes for learners, through its regulatory and professional roles at key points of entry to the profession and renewal of practising certificates. These provide the strategic focus for the Council's 2008-11 goals and to its opportunities to contribute to the overarching goal for the education sector.

Strategic Focus

There are three key stages in a teacher's pathway leading from student teacher status to full registration as a teacher (see Figure 1). Selection into an approved initial teacher education (ITE) programme is the first entry point. The second stage is reached when a student graduates from an approved ITE programme and is granted provisional registration. The provisionally registered teacher is required to undertake a period of induction. The third stage is the endorsement of a provisionally registered teacher's movement to full registration.

These key entry points will be the major focus for the Council over the next three years. This will include:

  • the revision of guidelines and processes for the implementation of the recently introduced standards for graduating teachers
  • the piloting and implementation of quality induction programmes for all provisionally registered teachers
  • the piloting and implementation of revised standards and assurance processes for granting full registration for provisionally registered teachers and for the renewal of practising certificates
  • support to the professional leadership responsibilities of teachers, principals and others with responsibility to support their teaching colleagues.

Key Strategic Goals: 2008-11

The Council has identified four key goals over the next three years to support its vision of effective teaching to maximise learning opportunities for all children and young people. These are:

  • strengthen the quality of teacher education graduates
  • strengthen the induction of provisionally registered teachers
  • review and strengthen teaching standards for entry to the profession and on-going registration
  • promote effective leadership for learning.

In addition, the Council's Strategic Plan 2008-11 identifies the following emphases in support of the key goals:

  • support provision of quality teaching in Māori medium settings
  • support early childhood education teachers in the implementation of the government's strategic plan 2005-12: Pathways to the Future: Ngā Huarahi Arataki
  • build recognition of and respect for the teaching profession through a focused communications strategy
  • provide targeted professional development to support the Council's strategic goals.

Goal 1: Strengthen the quality of teacher education graduates

Why is this important?

Selection into an approved initial teacher education programme is the first entry point to the profession. Graduates of these programmes need to demonstrate that they are able to meet the diverse learning needs of children and young people in changing social, cultural and economic contexts. It is from this pool of teachers that the profession will renew itself. Good quality graduates, equipped and supported to become excellent teachers, will in turn raise the status of the profession and so attract good candidates who apply for ITE programmes in the future.

What are we seeking to achieve?

The Council is seeking to achieve consistently well prepared graduates from all initial education programmes, who, with support from experienced colleagues, are able to effectively teach the learners they have responsibility for in their initial employment in their specialist settings. Secondly, such graduates should be equipped to benefit from induction and mentoring programmes and move to full registration as fully competent teachers.

Within this goal, the Council is seeking to ensure that there are graduates who are proficient in Te Reo Māori to meet the needs of learners who choose to be educated in Māori medium settings.

What will we do to achieve this goal?

In 2007, the Council published its Graduating Teacher Standards that were developed in consultation with the profession and which replace the Satisfactory Teacher Dimensions as the standards for initial teacher education graduates. These standards include requirements for graduates to promote learning for all children and young people.

Over the next three years, these standards will be embedded in our guidelines for approvals and re-approvals of ITE programmes, and thus into the programmes themselves and the programme requirements for graduates to demonstrate competence against the standards.

The Council is revising its processes by which it approves and reapproves ITE programmes to ensure that these processes efficiently and effectively assess the quality of ITE programmes.

The Council will also continue its three phased research programme to identify the particular requirements for graduates of Māori medium initial teacher education programmes that will inform the approval/reapproval processes of these tertiary institutions.

How will we demonstrate success in achieving this goal?

The measures for the effectiveness of Council interventions will focus on:

  • the confidence of employers in the pool of graduates seeking teaching positions
  • observations by the Education Review Office of more effective teaching for diverse learners by recently qualified teachers
  • surveys of graduates to gauge the degree and patterns of employment upon graduation and their perceptions of the adequacy of their teacher preparation
  • surveys of employers to gauge satisfaction with newly qualified teachers, including those prepared for teaching in Māori medium settings.

Goal 2: Strengthen the induction of provisionally registered teachers

Why is this important?

No matter how well prepared graduates are from ITE programmes, it is not until they have full responsibility for a group or groups of learners that they have the opportunity to embed theoretical learning into quality professional practice over a sustained period of time. Research studies have demonstrated that high quality induction and mentoring support in the first two or three years of teaching is critical to the ability of newly qualified teachers to achieve their full professional potential and to their retention in the profession.

In New Zealand, structured support for provisionally registered teachers (PRTs) has been resourced by government for many years. Although many instances of good practice exist, research, including the Council's Learning to Teach investigation, has shown system wide deficiencies in this support. In particular, the critical role of the mentor teacher in supporting in-depth pedagogical development of the PRT has been high-lighted along with the lack of adequate mentor teacher development and support provided for these roles.

Strengthening the quality and consistency of induction support to newly qualified teachers will have a significant effect on the quality of teaching and learning for children and young people in New Zealand.

What are we seeking to achieve?

The goal is to achieve consistently high quality induction and mentoring of all provisionally registered teachers in New Zealand to maximise their potential as teachers and to retain a higher percentage of them in the profession for longer periods of time than at present.

What will we do to achieve this goal?

The Council will trial appropriate guidelines of induction programmes and mentor teacher development and support via a series of pilots in early childhood education settings and schools, including Māori medium. From these, the Council will identify and develop appropriate models of mentor teacher development and support, and disseminate best induction methods and practices for mentoring.

The Council will work with Government and other key stakeholders to build the provision of consistently high quality induction programmes and mentor teacher development and support.

The Council will improve its communications with PRTs and those who support them, particularly through enhancements to its website.

How will we demonstrate success in achieving this goal?

Success will be seen in such indicators as retention of teachers, quality teaching and expressed confidence of PRTs in their induction programmes and teaching experiences. The Council will gather data using such methods as:

  • replicating in future years, aspects of the Learning to Teach research programme to compare perceptions of the nature and quality of future participants in induction programmes with the 2006-07 data
  • on-going evaluation of the new guidelines for providing mentor teacher development and support, and for induction programmes that will provide data on the consistency, quality and continuing barriers to quality provision of support to PRTs. Demographic data on recruitment and retention of teachers will provide support to such evaluation probes.

Goal 3: Review and strengthen teaching standards for entry to the profession and for on-going registration

Why is this important?

Gaining a practising certificate as a fully registered teacher is the final point of entry to the profession. It is important that both the public and the profession have a clear statement of what is involved in being an effective teacher in New Zealand, whether in an early childhood setting, school or kura.

This acts as a beacon for the profession and a guide for the learning and assessment of those becoming or supporting others to become fully fledged members of the profession. Similarly, for experienced teachers, the criteria provide a framework for their on-going professional learning and development, as well as an assurance to the profession and public that teachers have continuing professional competence.

What are we seeking to achieve?

The standards used to gain full registration and maintain a practising certificate need to validly represent the professional knowledge, skills, relationships and values that will meet the needs of all learners and that are valued by the profession.

In addition, the assurance processes used to attest that teachers meet the critieria also need to be robust, fair and valid. These are issues the Council will continue to work through with the profession over the next three years.

The Council is seeking to strengthen and future proof the criteria for quality teaching required for registered teachers and gain the support of the profession for these standards. In reviewing the criteria, the Council will also be seeking to clarify categories of registration for teachers whose work support learning, but may not be directly in a teaching role.

What will we do to achieve this goal?

The Council has reviewed the Satisfactory Teacher Dimensions (STDs) and developed draft Registered Teacher Criteria (RTC) to replace the STDs as benchmarks for the gaining and maintaining of Full Registration. The Council will now consult widely with the profession on the RTC.

In 2009, the Council will pilot the revised RTC and the revised assurance processes in a range of settings. As part of the pilots, it will seek to develop guidelines to help professional leaders make good decisions when assessing teachers against the RTC.

As part of the review of the Satisfactory Teacher Dimensions, it will also review and clarify categories of registration for teachers in a variety of roles by consulting with the profession.

In 2010, the revised RTC and assurance processes will be implemented throughout the profession. To support this implementation, the Council will provide professional development for those involved in supporting and assessing teaching colleagues to achieve or maintain proficiency in the RTC.

How will we demonstrate success in achieving this goal?

The pilots for the RTC will be formally evaluated. This will ascertain if they are seen as a valid representation of the complex role of teaching, and if the assessment and assurance processes are both workable and robust.

Success will also be seen in the degree to which the standards are accepted and used to replace other standards, particularly those currently used in the performance management systems mandated by the Ministry of Education and embedded in collective agreements in some cases.

Goal 4: Promote effective leadership for learning

Why is this important?

There is strong evidence that professional leadership focused on learning makes a significant difference to learning outcomes for children and young people. Professional leaders have a particularly important responsibility as leaders of learning, including the professional learning and development of teachers.

What are we seeking to achieve?

The Council is seeking to improve and strengthen the degree to which professional leaders have a shared understanding of the standards and good practices needed for induction and mentoring of PRTs and of the assessment and assurance processes for gaining and maintaining full registration. In the New Zealand context of self-managing schools and centres, it is a challenge to gain such consistency of understanding across so many individual sites.

Through structured professional support to mentors, the Council also seeks to strengthen the leadership capability and capacity within the profession that will promote teaching and learning and lead to greater gains in learners' achievements and life outcomes for all students.

The Council is also seeking to further strengthen professional leadership in Māori medium and early childhood education settings, so that professional practice in those settings is of a high quality and supports good and equitable educational outcomes for learners.

What will we do to achieve this goal?

The Council will

  • promote leadership practices that support quality teaching and professionalism in learning communities throughout the sector through the pilots and implementation of guidelines for the teacher development and support and the on-going support of mentor teachers
  • work collaboratively with Government, teacher unions and the tertiary sector to find sustainable ways to resource and recognise this teacher development and support and the career steps for teachers in these roles
  • involve professional leaders in the pilots for the revised registration standards, and provide on-going professional support to them during the first implementation years of this project.

The Council is also working with groups and individuals in the Māori medium and early childhood education sector to explore ways of supporting the development of professional leadership in those sectors. Work programmes arising from that consultation will be progressively implemented in the next three years.

How will we demonstrate success in achieving this goal?

Achievement of this goal will be reflected in the measures of the successful implementation of:

  • the draft Registered Teacher Criteria
  • the professional development programmes for mentors
  • revised programmes of induction in schools, early childhood and Māori medium settings.

Governance

In setting and achieving these strategic goals, the Council provides strong governance to ensure excellence in organisational performance. It does this through:
  • setting the Council's strategic direction, budget forecasting, and ensuring that the work of the organisation is well directed
  • requiring a high level of accountability from its executive management to enable achievement of its goals.

As part of its strategic planning process for the 2007-08 financial year, the Council agreed to review its current structure and composition to determine:

  • how well the structure and composition of the Council support its purpose and goal
  • if the current arrangements are the best model to achieve its goals and functions

In 2008-09, the Council proposes to consult with the sector to obtain stakeholder views on the current structure and composition of the Council.

Monitoring of Performance

In addition to the Annual Report, the Council will be preparing, on a quarterly and as required basis, reports against initiatives and various objectives set out in Part 2.

Assessment of Contribution to Outcomes

For each of the outputs or projects that the Council undertakes, appropriate measures are adopted to determine the outcome of these initiatives for teachers and the wider requirements of the education sector. In so doing, the Council measures the quality of its delivery. In turn, these assessments inform the future strategic goals and actions of the Council.

The Council assesses the progress of its outputs each quarter through measures, such as the quantity delivered of each element, the quality of the product and the timeliness in the delivery of each output.

It will further refine its measurement tools by the use of formal evaluation research methodologies, consultation with other education sector agencies, peer review, and stakeholder feedback.

The Council also monitors and evaluates its practices against similar international authorities. This includes regulatory authorities in each of the Australian states and the United Kingdom. For example, the registration unit liaises with international teaching bodies regarding overseas teachers applying to the Council for registration.

Similarly, in reviewing the effectiveness of its communications, the Council will not only be surveying teachers, schools and centres, but it will also access the publications of international counterparts to benchmark its communications against peer organisations.

The Council also liaises with other comparable professional bodies in New Zealand. For example, in processing overseas applications for registration, the Council recognises the policies of the New Zealand Immigration Service regarding applicants applying for residency. In the area of professional standards, the organisation looks to other professional bodies, such as the Medical Council and the Health and Disability Commission, for the reporting of decisions and processing times for complaints and reports.

Measuring Achievement

Achievement will be measured through the setting of clear key performance indicators for each output. In the first instance, monitoring and reporting of these results will be made to the Council's specialist committees (the Audit and Risk Management and the Professional Leadership committees), and then subsequently to the Council and to the Minister through the standard reporting formats.

Indications of achievement will be measured by the uptake and adoption of Council led initiatives and projects, and its growing influence across the sector.

Further discussion on the way in which the Council will measure its achievements against its stated outputs and outcomes is contained in the section Assessment of Contribution to Outcomes.

Internal Environment

The Staff

The Council focuses on achieving an internal environment that gives staff the support and encouragement to enable them to achieve the Council's goals in an efficient and effective manner.

This requires that the Council has the staffing capacity to achieve these goals.

Staffing Structure

The Council's staffing structure for 2008-09 will include:

Executive

Director

Executive Assistant

Corporate Services Corporate Services Manager

ICT Advisor/Analyst

ICT Systems Administrator

Accountant

Administrative Assistance (0.5)

Non Teacher Police Vetting Officer (0.75 x 2)

Registration Manager Registration

Team Leader Registration

Team Leader Customer Service & Office Administration

Registration Officers & Qualifications Evaluation x 10

Contact Centre x 4

Data Entry x 2

Administrative Assistant (0.25)

Teacher Practice Senior Advisor Teacher Practice

Advisor Teacher Practice (0.5)

Legal Administrators x 3

Administrative Assistant

Teacher Education Senior Advisor Teacher Education

Administrative Assistant (0.5)

Policy and Strategic Development Manager Policy and Strategic Development

Policy Analyst

Research Analyst

Policy Advisor Early Childhood

Policy Advisor Māori

Senior Administrator

The Council has completed a survey of the current gender; age and ethnicity of its employees to help inform its recruitment and selection of future employees (see Appendix 3).

Registration activity has increased with the Council assuming a greater role in the processing of overseas applicants. The Council has increased its staffing to deal with this.

The Council has also formed an additional Complaints Assessment Committee (CAC) and an Impairments Committee that will be fully operational in 2008-09. The Council has employed additional staff to service these committees.

The Council currently has the capacity to fulfil its statutory role and functions. However, over the next three years the Council will undertake a significant review of programmes and activities to support the ongoing high standards of the profession. This will require additional expertise in the areas of programme and project management and analysis, and extra resources to implement any changes resulting from these reviews.

Good Employer Requirements

The Council is committed to being a good employer and currently has formal policies and practices that inform each of the elements that comprise a sound employment programme (see Appendix 4).

Staff will continue to be informed of the Council's good employer and associated policies during formal induction, by regular staff training and feedback of policy updates. The Council respects the expertise of its staff and encourages opportunities for input to improving workflow processes and workplace environment by regular team meetings.

The Council will monitor its performance against each of the elements that inform a good employer programme. The analysis of Human Resources data informs this evaluation.

To further evaluate its performance as a good employer, the Council's medium term goals in this area are:

Goal

Outcome
To produce and implement a formal EEO programme driven by organisational values Reporting results to Council in June 2009
To audit impartial selection of suitably qualified candidates for appointment over the next 12 month period Reporting results to Council in June 2009
To ensure procedural fairness is maintained for all HR strategies, systems and practices over the next 12 month period Reporting results to Council in June 2009
To measure and report on opportunities for the enhancement of the abilities of individual employees Reporting results to Council in June 2009
That the employment of Māori and Pasifika is encouraged at all levels of the organisation by maintaining and utilising Māori and Pacific networks and relationships to attract Māori and Pacific applicants Reporting results to Council in June 2009

Strategic Information Technology Development The Council has increased its business efficiency and reporting capacity by stabilising and enhancing its ICT infrastructure significantly.  It will extend the system for sector-wide interactions, such as data sharing and e-transactions.

In addition, the Council will be undertaking further enhancements to its teacher registration system (TCR).

Document Management Project

The Council holds large repositories of paper records, information and electronic data that require streamlining in terms of its storage, retrieval and security. Based on the feasibility study and information mapping project completed in 2007, a comprehensive understanding of the types of information and records kept by the Council was reached.

The next stage in this work is an internal reorganisation of the Council's documentation practices and the installation of an electronic document and records

management system.

On-line Registration

Once the further enhancements of the TCR system have been made, the Council will begin to make the technical and legislative changes required to provide fully on-line registration.

Financial Strategy

The Council is in a sound financial position. Financial reporting to the Council is supported by monthly internal and variance reports. Re-forecasting has been introduced each quarter to determine the progress of organisational and project expenditure and to refocus against annual approved budget outputs. The Council will utilise present reserves to deliver the key strategic projects over the next two years.

The Council is vigilant in its financial planning, taking into account its three-year practising certificate income cycle. It continues to check the methodology applied to income recognition and the application of fee income to outputs and, in 2008-09, the Council will again review the costs of processing registration applications. The Council is inherently cash rich, mainly due to the timing of the fee income and the ability of the Council to deliver its core business. As it has a small fixed asset base and is unable to raise external debt, it is totally reliant on the fee income to conduct its core legislative activities and policy projects.

In considering possible increases in existing sources of revenue, (including retrieving fees from teachers who are unlawfully employed, programme approval costs, and generating income from new sources), the Council is mindful of the balance between delivery of projects to the education sector and ensuring prudent expenditure of fees received.

The Council has not raised registration fees since 2003. It is forecasting the need for such an increase in the medium term. The Council will ensure that the sector is well informed prior to any increase in the fee and will also provide justification for the level of any proposed fee increase. This would take into account increases in actual organisational and service costs.

The Council has introduced the New Zealand International Financial Reporting Standards (NZIFRS) in preparation for reporting against these new standards in 2008-09.

Sustainability

The Council is committed to demonstrating sustainable practice and is a signatory to the Govt 3 initiative. To ensure the Council plays its role in the long-term sustainability of New Zealand's economy and in the global environment, the Council will build on the sustainability plan it developed in 2007 and will:
  • gather data for the 2008 Govt 3 survey
  • conduct an annual waste audit
  • complete a review of its recycling system
  • investigate the use of re-cycled paper for printers and copiers.

Part 2 Forecast Statement

2.1 Forecast Statement of Service Performance

Summary of outputs to be produced by the New Zealand Teachers Council

2008-09 Outputs

Total Revenue

$4,895,316
Total Expenditure $6,856,672
Surplus (Deficit) $(1,961,356)

Outputs

1. Teacher Registration

2. Maintenance of Professional Standards

3. Professional Leadership

4. Teacher Education

5. Non Teacher Police Vetting

The Council reviews its position against these outputs on an annual basis, both strategically and operationally.

2.1.1 Output 1 – Teacher Registration

To ensure an efficient and reliable registration process for the purpose of maintaining and promoting high standards for the teaching profession and building recognition of and respect for the teaching profession.

Teacher Registration 2008/09
Revenue $2,039,197
Expenditure $1,937,282
Surplus (Deficit) $101,915

Objectives of Output

The objectives of this output are to ensure:

  • that teachers hold an approved teacher education qualification
  • that teachers are of good character and fit to be a teacher
  • that teachers have completed satisfactory teaching experience when applying for renewal of their practising certificate
  • that teachers have a satisfactory police vet
  • that overseas qualified teachers have the required level of proficiency in the English language and appropriate teacher education to be registered to teach in New Zealand settings
  • that those teachers registered subject to confirmation have had appropriate supervision and professional development when they are recommended to move to full registration
  • that teachers with provisional registration undertake an effective advice and guidance programme before applying for full registration
  • that a web-assisted registration process is available
  • that relevant information and advice is provided and communicated to members of the profession and the public.

Key Performance Indicators

Quality

The database is maintained with an updated web register This updating is completed in real time. The register is updated as each approval is signed off and when the registration status changes
All teacher quality assurance activities are made in accordance with the Education Act (1989) and Teachers Council's policies and procedures All applications processed in accordance with legislation and policy

Quantity
Applications approved by category Applications Standard for Quarter
Application for Registration Actual numbers Budget
Renewal Actual numbers Budget
Provisional/STC to Full Actual numbers Budget

Quantity Applications declined by category* Applications closed by category*
Application for Registration    
Renewal    
Provisional/STC to Full Registration    

*Applications are declined when they do not meet the Council policy. This could be in qualifications, service, language proficiency and /or good character. Applications are closed if the applicant has failed to respond satisfactorily to requests for information. At this point there would have been more than four communications generated.

Quantity YTD Actual Quarterly Actual
Limited Authority to Teach Actual numbers Actual numbers

Timeliness
Applications approved by category Weeks Standard Percentage Actual
Application for Registration 6 80%  
Renewal 6 80%  
Provisional/STC to Full 4 80%  

2.1.2 Output 2 – Maintenance of Professional Standards

To consider and determine reports and complaints regarding fitness to be a teacher and/or competence of teachers and those authorised to teach for the purpose of maintaining and promoting high standards for the teaching profession.

Maintenance of Professional Standards 2008/09
Revenue $990,108
Expenditure $1,403,307
Net Surplus (Deficit) $(413,199)

Objectives of Output

The objectives of this output are to:

  • promote professional and ethical conduct by teachers
  • promote effective teaching practice
  • maintain an effective Complaints Assessment Committee and Disciplinary
Tribunal
  • maintain an effective process for considering and determining teachers'
competence
  • provide information relating to the investigation and decision making
processes to assist teachers and others to identify the dimensions of

acceptable teacher competence and professional behaviour.

Key Performance Indicators

Quality

Standard Quarterly Actual
Web register is accurate and up to date within 2 working days of a decision 100%  
All decisions are made in accordance with the requirements of the Education Act 1989 and the New Zealand Teachers Council Rules 2004 100%  

Quantity Standard YTD Actual Quarterly Actual
Number of complaints and mandatory reports received by CAC 120    
Number of complaints and mandatory reports resolved* by CAC 120    
Number of referrals from CAC to competence 15    
Number of competency complaints and mandatory reports received 50    
Number of competency complaints and mandatory reports resolved* 50    
Number of conduct/competence cases determined by the Council 50    
Number of cases referred by CAC to DT 15    
Number of cases resolved* by DT 15    

*Resolved means that the CAC has completed its investigation.

Timeliness

Standard Quarterly Actual
Percentage of cases presented to CAC for first consideration within three months 95%*  
Percentage of CAC cases resolved within 2 years 70%  
Percentage of competency cases resolved within a period of three years (term of a practising certificate) 90%  
Percentage of Disciplinary Tribunal cases determined within nine months 75%  

* Some CAC cases cannot be considered until all parties have agreed to the process.

2.1.3 Output 3 Professional Leadership

To develop policy, research and strategic goals to enhance the quality of teaching and the standing of the teaching profession, and to communicate with stakeholders to ensure that the Council works in co operation with the profession and that its policies and strategic direction are understood.

Professional Leadership 2008/09
Revenue $1,279,224
Expenditure $3,010,560
Surplus (Deficit) $(1,731,336)

Objectives of Output

The objectives of this output are to:

  • enhance the capability of the teaching profession
  • safeguard the public interest and strengthen the standing of the teaching profession by establishing and reviewing standards for entry into and on-going practice as a teacher
  • revise the guidelines by which the Council approves/reapproves initial teacher education programmes
  • strengthen the induction of provisionally registered teachers
  • promote the Code of Ethics / Ngā Tikanga Matatika for teachers
  • maintain effective communications networks with educators and other key stakeholders, including facilitation of statutory advisory groups, to support the core responsibilities of the Council
  • commission and promote research that contributes to quality teaching and strengthens professional capability
  • develop policies that strengthen the Council's legislative functions and promote the quality and standing of the teaching profession
  • provide targeted professional development for teachers and professional leaders to support the Council's strategic goals
  • provide advice to support the development of the Council's strategic direction and strategic goals.

Key Performance Indicators

Quality

Standard YTD Actual Quarterly Actual
1. Research projects are monitored appropriately and lead to policy advice to Council and stakeholders 100%    
2. Research and other projects involve stakeholder representation as appropriate 100%    
3. Research and other projects involve consultation with stakeholders as appropriate 100%    
4. Research and development projects use appropriate evaluation strategies for planning, implementation and review 100%    
5. Policies and policy advice are developed in accordance with the Council's requirements for quality policy development 100%    

Quantity & Timeliness

YTD Actual * Quarterly Actual *

Review of Satisfactory Teacher Dimensions

1. Consult with the profession on the draft revised Satisfactory Teacher Dimensions (Registered Teacher Criteria) by December 2008

   

2. Engage five clusters of teachers in the pilot for the draft Registered Teacher Criteria from February 2009 to December 2009

   
Quantity & Timeliness YTD Actual * Quarterly Actual *

Induction and Mentoring Project

3. Establish five programmes to pilot draft guidelines for induction programmes & mentor teacher development and support from February 2009 to December 2009

   

Review of policy and guidelines for approvals / reapprovals of ITE programmes

4. Revise the procedures and guidelines for the approval/reapproval of ITE programmes by June 2009

   

5. Publish the revised procedures and guidelines for the approval/reapproval of ITE programmes by June 2009

   

Development of Registration Policy

6. Consult with key stakeholders on the Council's Registration Policy by June 2009

   

Code of Ethics Workshops

7. Complete 4 workshops on Ngā Tikanga Matatika (Code of Ethics) by June 2009

   

Reo Proficiency Research Project

8. Let contract for Phase 2 of a research programme to support te reo Māori proficiency in ITE programmes by February 2009

   

9. Receive the first milestone report for the field research stage of Phase 2 of the research programme to support te reo Māori proficiency in ITE programmes by June 2009

   

2.1.4 Output 4 - Teacher Education

To establish and maintain standards for initial teacher education programmes through approval and reapproval processes and external monitoring, the provision of advice to student teachers, liaison with teacher education providers, the management of workshops on the Code of Ethics and participation in research into teacher education policies, processes and outcomes.

Teacher Education 2008/09
Revenue $426,767
Expenditure $339,912
Surplus (Deficit) $86,855

The Teachers Council approves initial teacher education programmes for the purposes of teacher registration in conjunction with three quality assurance agencies:

NZQA

New Zealand Qualifications Authority
CUAP Committee on University Academic Programmes
ITPQ Institutes of Technology & Polytechnics Quality

Objectives of Output

The objectives of this output are:

  • to set and maintain standards of initial teacher education programmes that lead to registration as a teacher
  • to conduct approvals of new and existing initial teacher education programmes
  • to publicise the work of the Council to graduating student teachers and to provide advice to them on pathways to registration
  • to advise, promote and participate in research on initial and continuing teacher education.

Key Performance Indicators

Quality

Standard
All decisions are consistent with Teachers Council standards and revised guidelines for approvals of teacher education programmes and relevant legislation 100%

Quantity* Standard YTD Actual Quarterly Actual
Number of teacher education programmes considered for approval and reapproval 37    

Timeliness Standard
Percentage of all programme approvals/reapprovals that are negotiated within agreed timeframe between the quality assurance agency and the Council 100%
Percentage of all requests for graduating student seminars that are negotiated within the agreed timeframe between the institution and the Council 100%

*The Council has no control over the number of applications for the approval of new teacher education programmes.

2.1.5 Output 5 – Non Teacher Police Vetting

To act as a conduit for obtaining a police check for all those non-teachers and contractors employed regularly in schools, kura kaupapa Māori, kindergartens, kohanga reo and other early childhood settings*.

Non Teacher Police Vetting 2008/09
Revenue $160,020
Expenditure $165,611
Surplus (Deficit) $(5,591)

Objectives of Output

The objective of this output is to:

  • contribute, alongside other agencies, to ensure that those working in regular contact with infants, children and young people are of good character and do not pose a threat to the well being or safety of any individual.

Key Performance Indicators

Quality

Standard YTD Actual Quarterly Actual
All non teacher and contractor vet requirements will be consistent with the Education Act and Teachers Council's policies and procedures 100%    

Quantity Standard YTD Actual Quarterly Actual
Number of non teacher police checks completed 18,000    

* This is a requirement of the Education Standards Act. The Council is charged with establishing a cost recovery process that ensures that every person employed in a non-teaching capacity undergoes a check.

Timeliness

Standard YTD Actual Quarterly Actual
* Percentage      
Turnaround of vet result, from New Zealand Police, processed within 5 working days 80%    

2.2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, assumptions and any other relevant information underlying Prospective Financial Statements

Reporting Entity

The New Zealand Teachers Council is an Autonomous Crown Entity established under the Education Standards Act 2001. It is involved in ensuring that New Zealand schools and early childhood centres are staffed by teachers meeting approved standards of suitability, fitness and qualification.

The Council is also an Autonomous Crown Entity as defined by the Crown Entities Act 2004 and is domiciled in New Zealand.

The Council's primary objective is to provide public services to the New Zealand Public, as opposed to making a financial return.

Accordingly, the Council has designated itself as a public benefit entity for the purposes of New Zealand Equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (NZIFRS).

The prospective financial statements of the Council are for the year ended 30 June 2009, and were approved by the Council on 28 May 2008.

These prospective financial statements are prepared in accordance with section 41 of the Public Finance Act 1989, the Seventh Schedule of the Education Act 1989, the Crown Entities Act 2004 and FRS 42: Prospective Financial Statements. They outline the New Zealand Teachers Council activities and planned performance and the information contained in these prospective financial statements may not be appropriate for use for any other purpose.

Statement of Responsibility

We accept responsibility for the preparation of the statements of account and the judgements used therein. The financial statements have been prepared on the basis of generally accepted accounting practice and in accordance with section 41 of the Public Finance Act 1989, the Seventh Schedule of the Education Act 1989, the Crown Entities Act 2004 and FRS 42: Prospective Financial Statements.

We acknowledge the establishment and maintenance of internal control procedures and that internal control procedures are considered to be sufficient to provide a reasonable assurance as to the integrity and reliability of financial and non-financial reporting.

Kathy Smith

Barbara Arnott
Chair Chair: Audit & Risk Management Committee
Date 30 May 2008 Date 30 May 2008

Adoption of New Zealand equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards

The Accounting Standards Review Board (ASRB) adopted IFRS for application to reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2007. The ASRB have issued New Zealand equivalents to IFRS. Full adoption of New Zealand equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (NZ IFRS) by the New Zealand Teachers Council will occur for the year ended 30 June 2008. The prospective financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2008 have been prepared in accordance with NZ IFRS. The comparative figures (years ended 30 June 2007 and 2008) have been reported under NZ IFRS.

Entities complying with the New Zealand equivalents to IFRS for the first time are required to restate their comparative financial statements to amounts reflecting the application of IFRS for that comparative period. Most adjustments required on transition to IFRS will be made, retrospectively, against opening retained earnings as at 1 July 2006.

The Council has assessed the significance of the changes and will prepare for their implementation. The key differences are:

  • Computer software will be reclassified as an intangible asset
  • Deposits with a term of three months or less will be reclassified as Cash and Cash Equivalents

The primary objective of the Council is to provide professional leadership in teaching, enhance the professional status of teachers and contribute to a safe and high quality teaching and learning environment. It has therefore elected to report as a public benefit entity for the purposes of NZ IFRS.

Measurement System

The Council's Financial Statements comply with generally accepted accounting practice and NZ IFRS.

The measurement base adopted is that of historical cost.

2.3 Prospective Financial Statements

The Prospective Financial Statements are prepared in accordance with NZ IFRS on the basis of assumptions as to future events that the New Zealand Teachers Council reasonably expects to occur, associated with the actions that the New Zealand Teachers Council reasonably expects to take, as at the date that this information was prepared.

Basis of Preparation

Statement of Compliance

The financial statements of the Council have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Crown Entities Act 2004, which includes the requirement to comply with New Zealand generally accepted accounting practice (NZGAAP).

The Financial statements comply with NZIFRS, and other applicable Financial Reporting Standards, as appropriate for public benefit entities.

First year of preparation under NZIFRS

This is the first set of financial statements prepared using NZIFRS, and comparatives for the year ended 30 June 2007 have been restated to NZIFRS accordingly.

The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently to all periods presented in these financial statements and in preparing an opening NZIFRS statement of financial position as at 1 July 2006 for the purposes of the transition to NZIFRS.

The preparation of financial statements that conform to NZIFRS requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the result of which forms the basis of making the judgments about carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The actual financial results achieved for the period covered are likely to vary from the information presented in the Prospective Financial Statements and these variations may be material.

Measurement base

The financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except where modified by the measurement of equity investments and derivative financial instruments at fair value.

Functional and presentation currency

The financial statements are presented in New Zealand dollars and all values are rounded to the nearest dollar. The functional currency of the Council is New Zealand dollars.

Revenue


New Zealand Teachers Council derives revenue through the charging of fees for practising certificates, Limited Authority to Teach applications, provisional to full applications, non teacher police vet applications, teacher education programme approval income and income from investments. Practising certificate fees are charged on a three-yearly basis.

The income received in advance, as at 30 June 2004, is amortised to income in equal monthly installments over three years and from 1 July 2004. A portion of the revenue received from practising certificate fees is recognised in the month of receipt.

Revenue from fees received after 30 June 2004 is allocated proportionally over the period to which it relates. The unearned portion of fees is shown under current liabilities.

Interest income is recognised using the effective interest method.

All other revenue is recognised when earned and is reported in the financial period to which it relates.

Goods and Services Tax

All items in the financial statements are presented exclusive of GST, except for receivables and payables, which are presented on a GST inclusive basis. Where GST is not recoverable as an input tax then it is recognised as part of the related asset or expense.

The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) is included as part of the receivables or payables in the statement of financial position.

The net GST paid to, or received from the IRD, including the GST relating to investing and financing activities, is classified as an operating cash flow in the statement of cash flows.

Commitments and contingencies are disclosed exclusive of GST.

Taxation


The New Zealand Teachers Council is a public authority in terms of the Income Tax Act 2004 and consequently is exempt from income tax.

Accounts Receivable


Accounts receivable are measured at their carrying value which approximates their fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any provision for impairment.

Bad Debts are written off during the period in which they are identified.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

For the purposes of the cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents comprise deposits with banks and bank and cash balances, net of bank overdrafts. Deposits are included when they have a maturity of no more than three months from the date of acquisition.

Term Deposits


At each balance date the Council assesses whether there is any objective evidence that a term deposit is impaired.

Investment in term deposits are initially measured at their carrying value which approximates their fair value plus transaction costs if any.

After initial recognition the term deposits are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

For term deposits, impairment is established when there is objective evidence that the Council will not be able to collect amounts due according to the original terms of the deposit. Significant financial difficulties of the bank, probability that the bank will enter bankruptcy, and default in payments are considered indicators that a deposit is impaired.

Property, Plant and Equipment


The major classes of Property, Plant and Equipment are as follows:

Office Equipment

Computer Equipment

Furniture & Fittings

Office Fitout

Items of Property, Plant and Equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.

Property, Plant and Equipment vested from the Teacher Registration Board on 1 February 2002 were transferred at their net book values. The vested assets will continue to be depreciated over their remaining useful lives.

Additions

The cost of an item of property, plant and equipment is recognised as an asset only when it is probable that future economic benefits or service potential associated with the item will flow to the Council and the cost of the item can be measured reliably.

Where an asset is acquired at no cost, or obtained for a nominal cost, it is recognised at fair value when control over the asset is obtained.

Disposals

Where an item of plant and equipment is disposed of, the gain or loss recognised in the statement of financial performance is calculated as the difference between the net sales price and the carrying amount of the asset.

Subsequent costs

Costs incurred subsequent to initial acquisition are capitalised only when it is probable that future economic benefits or service potential associated with the item will flow to the Council and the cost of the item can be measured reliably.

The costs of day-to-day servicing of property, plant and equipment are recognised in the statement of financial performance as they are incurred.

Depreciation


Depreciation is charged to the statement of financial performance using the straight-line method. Depreciation is set at rates that will write off the cost or fair value of the assets, less their estimated residual values, over their useful lives. The estimated useful life and resulting rates are as follows:

Class of Asset Estimated Life Depreciation Rate
Office Equipment Computer Equipment

Furniture & Fittings Office Fitout

5 Years

3 Years

15 Years

5 Years

20%

33.3%

6.7%

20%

The residual value of assets is reassessed annually.

Intangible Assets

Software acquisition and development

Acquired computer software licenses are capitalised on the basis of the costs incurred to acquire and to bring to use the specific software.

Costs that are directly associated with the development of software for internal use by the Council, are recognised as an intangible asset. Direct costs include the software development, employee costs and an appropriate portion of relevant overheads.

Staff training costs are recognised as an expense when incurred.

Costs associated with maintaining computer software are recognised as an expense when incurred.

Costs associated with the development and maintenance of the Council website are recognised as an expense when incurred.

Amortisation

Amortisation is charged to the statement of financial performance on a straight-line basis over the useful life.

The estimated useful life is as follows:

  Estimated Life Amortisation Rate
Acquired Software 3 years 33%
Developed Software 3 years 33%

The Intangible assets above are deemed to have finite lives.

Impairment of non-financial assets

Property, Plant and Equipment and intangible assets that have a finite useful life are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the assets carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an assets fair value less costs to sell and value in use.

Value in use is depreciated replacement cost for an asset where the future economic benefits or service potential of the asset are not primarily dependent on the assets ability to generate net cash inflows and where the Council would, if deprived of the asset, replace its remaining future economic benefits or service potential.

If an asset's carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is impaired and the carrying amount is written down to the recoverable amount.

The total impairment loss is recognised in the statement of financial performance.

The reversal of an impairment loss is recognised in the statement of financial performance.

The Council does not own land and buildings and consequently does not do asset revaluations.

Creditors and Other payables

Creditors and other payables are initially measured at their carrying values which approximate their fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Employee Entitlements

Short-term employee entitlements - employee entitlements that Council expects to be settled within 12 months of balance date are measured at undiscounted nominal values based on accrued entitlements at current rates of pay.

These include salaries and wages accrued up to balance date, annual leave earned, but not yet taken at balance date and sick leave.

The Council recognises a liability for sick leave, if material, to the extent that compensated absences in the coming year are expected to be greater than the sick leave entitlements earned in the coming year. The amount is calculated based on the unused sick leave entitlement that can be carried forward at balance date; to the extent the Council anticipates it will be used by staff to cover those future absences.

The Council does not have bonus schemes or long service leave available to staff.

Superannuation schemes

Obligations for contributions to KiwiSaver and Government Superannuation Fund are accounted for as defined contribution superannuation schemes and are recognised as an expense in the statement of performance as incurred.

Operating Leases

Operating lease payments, where the lessors effectively retain substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the leased items, are included in the Statement of Financial Performance. Operating lease expenses are recognised on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease.

Financial Instruments

The Council uses financial instruments as part of its normal operations. These financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, debtors, term deposits, and creditors. All financial instruments are recognised in the Statement of Financial Position and all revenues and expenses in relation to financial instruments are recognised in the statement of financial performance. All financial instruments are

recognised and stated at fair value.

Cash flow statement

The Cash Flow Statement is prepared exclusive of GST, which is consistent with the method used in the Statement of Financial Performance.

The following are the definitions of the terms used in the Cash Flow Statement:

(a) Operating activities include all transactions and other events that are not investing or financing activities.

(b) Investing activities are those activities relating to the acquisition, holding and disposal of Property, Plant and Equipment and of investments. Investments can include securities not falling within the definition of cash.

(c) Financing activities are those activities that result in changes in the size and composition of the capital structure. This includes both equity and debt not falling within the definition of cash.

(d) For the purposes of the Cash Flow Statement, cash and cash equivalents comprise deposits with banks and bank and cash balances, net of bank overdrafts. Deposits are included when they have a maturity of no more than three months from date of acquisition.

Cost Allocation

New Zealand Teachers Council has five outputs outlined in the Statement of Intent. These are Teacher Registration, Maintenance of Professional Standards, Teacher Education, Professional Leadership and Non Teacher Police Vetting. The Council has derived the cost of each output using the system outlined below.

Direct costs are charged directly to the outputs. Indirect costs are charged to outputs based on appropriate cost drivers such as actual usage, staff numbers and

floor area.

Direct costs are those costs directly attributable to an output. Indirect costs are those that cannot be identified in an economically feasible manner with a specific output.

Indirect costs are those costs which cannot be identified in an economically feasible manner with a specific output.

Changes in Accounting Policies

There have been no changes in accounting policies. All policies used for the preparation of the financial statements have been applied on a basis consistent with previous years other than those resulting from the transition to NZIFRS.

Significant Assumptions

The Council maintains the assumption from projected data that 38,717 applications for registration will be received over the following year. This assumption averages at 73% of the Council's income for the same period.

The Council bases the estimates of expenditure on Disciplinary Tribunal Hearings and the assessment of complaints through the Complaints Assessment Committee on historical data, as the functions did not become active until late 2005.

The Council maintains the assumption that all members elected to the Council will hold office for the full three-year term. To mitigate any risk, the Council does budget a proportional amount in the event of a by election of one or more members.

NEW ZEALAND TEACHERS COUNCIL PROSPECTIVE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

  Actual Estimated Actual Projected
  Year ended 30 June 2007 Year ended

30 June 2008

Year ended

30 June 2009

       
INCOME      
Fees 3,373,246 3,096,468 3,609,632
Non Teacher Police Vetting 172,235 160,367 160,020
Revenue Crown 178,000 178,000 178,000
ProvSTCFull 351,959 389,249 370,696
LAT Fees 43,765 38,799 48,444
Interest Income 579,942 606,077 477,022
Sundry Income 7,217 7,968 4,500
Teacher Education Approvals 43,936 70,904 42,000
Complaints/Discipline Recovered Costs - 1,350 5,000
       
TOTAL INCOME 4,750,300 4,549,181 4,895,315
       
LESS: EXPENDITURE      
Personnel Costs 2,010,219 2,395,099 2,614,427
Council Member Fees 205,763 193,614 240,923
Administration Expenses 972,401 1,310,233 1,248,198
Professional/Consultancy Fees 96,063 72,530 78,250
Audit Fees 40,938 45,000 53,350
Rent 194,549 277,632 321,568
Advisory Committees 21,421 25,122 51,504
Complaints/Discipline 107,704 185,867 333,530
Depreciation 213,831 216,003 278,523
       
TOTAL EXPENSES 3,862,889 4,721,101 5,220,272
       
NET OPERATING SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) CORE BUSINESS 887,411 (171,920) (324,957)
       
Special Projects 299,541 471,910 1,321,400
Council Elections - 55,000 315,000
NET OPERATING SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) 587,870 (698,830)

(1,961,357)

Accompanying accounting policies and notes form an integral part of these prospective financial statements.

New Zealand Teachers Council Prospective Statement of Movements in Equity

       
  Actual Year ended 30 June 2007 Estimated Actual Year ended

30 June 2008

Projected Year ended

30 June 2009

       
Public Equity as at 1 July 5,202,247 5,790,117

5,091,287

Net Surplus/(Deficit) for the period 587,870 (698,830)

(1,961,357)

       
Total Recognised Revenues and Expenses for the period 587,870 (698,830)

(1,961,357)

       
PUBLIC EQUITY AS AT 30 JUNE 5,790,117 5,091,287

3,129,930

Accompanying accounting policies and notes form an integral part of these prospective financial statements.

NEW ZEALAND TEACHERS COUNCIL PROSPECTIVE FINANCIAL POSITION

       
  Actual Year Ended 30 June 2007 Estimated Year Ended 30 June 2008 Projected Year Ended 30 June 2009
       
EQUITY      
Retained Earnings 5,202,247 5,790,117 5,091,287
Net Operating Profit/(Loss) 587,870 (698,830) (1,961,357)
       
TOTAL EQUITY 5,790,117 5,091,287 3,129,930
       
Represented by:      
Assets      
CURRENT ASSETS      
Accrued Interest 133,684 60,000 60,000
Prepayments 24,088 15,000 15,000
Accounts Receivable 27,706 - -
Cash & Cash Equivalents 3,189,312 2,302,990 1,788,427
Term Deposits > 90 days < 365 days 4,787,788 4,745,176 3,778,786
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 8,162,578 7,123,166 5,642,213
       
NON-CURRENT ASSETS      
Property,Plant and Equipment 281,967 222,286 208,796
Intangible Assets 226,212 122,225 160,540
TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS 508,179 344,511 369,336
       
TOTAL ASSETS 8,670,757 7,467,677 6,011,550
       
Liabilities      
CURRENT LIABILITIES      
Accounts Payable 486,390 90,000 90,000
Fees Received in Advance 2,248,811 2,168,216 2,688,518
Provision for Employee Entitlements 89,231 82,500 82,500
Deferred Lease Liability 51,773 35,674 20,601
G.S.T Payable 4,435 - -
Accruals - - -
       
TOTAL LIABILITIES 2,880,640 2,376,390 2,881,619
       
NET ASSETS 5,790,117 5,091,287 3,129,931

Accompanying accounting policies and notes form an integral part of these prospective financial statements.

NEW ZEALAND TEACHERS COUNCIL PROSPECTIVE CASH FLOW STATEMENT

  Actual Estimated Actual Projected
  Year ended 30 June 2007 Year ended

30 June 2008

Year ended

30 June 2009

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES      
Cash Provided From:      
Fees Received 2,804,675 3,206,337 4,129,936
Lat Fees 43,765 38,799 48,444
Revenue Crown 178,000 178,000 178,000
Police Vetting Non Teachers 172,235 160,367 160,020
Interest Income 639,272 606,077 477,022
ProvSTCFull 351,959 389,249 370,696
Teacher Education Approvals 43,936 70,904 42,000
Sundry Income

7,219

7,968

4,500

Net G.S.T -    
 

4,241,061

4,657,700

5,410,619

       
Cash Applied to:      
Payments to Suppliers & Employees

(3,839,037)

(6,394,791)

(6,620,375)

Net G.S.T

(20,646)

   
 

(3,859,683)

(6,394,791)

(6,620,375)

       
Net Cash Flow From/(To) Operating Activities

381,378

(1,737,091)

(1,209,756)

       
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES      
       
Cash Provided From:      
Sale of Property, Plant and Equipment - -  
Sale of Investments 2,055,894 888,906 998,859
  2,055,894 888,906 998,859
       
Cash Applied To:      
       
       
Purchase of Investments (959,445) - -
Purchase of Intangible Assets - (18,070)

(194,416)

Purchase of Property, Plant and Equipment

(100,404)

(20,066)

(109,250)

 

(1,059,849)

(38,136)

(303,666)

       
       
Net Cash Flow From/(To) Investing Activities 996,045 850,769 695,193
       
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES      
Cash Provided From:      
  - - -
       
       
       
Cash Applied To:      
  - - -
       
       
Net Cash Flow From/(To) Financing Activities - - -
       
Net Increase/(Decrease) In Cash Held 1,377,423 - 886,322 - 514,563
       
Plus Opening Cash 1,811,889 3,189,312 2,302,990
       
Closing Cash at 30 June 3,189,312 2,302,990 1,788,427

Accompanying accounting policies and notes form an integral part of these prospective financial statements.

Part 3 Supporting Information

3.1 The Organisation

The New Zealand Teachers Council is located at 93 The Terrace, Wellington, on Levels 6, 7, 8 and 9 of The Genesis Building and has a staff of 40 FTE, including the Director.

The Council is responsible for policy, standards setting, regulatory and core service delivery functions relating to registration, maintenance of professional standards, professional leadership, approval of teacher education programmes and police vetting (teacher and non teacher).

Director

Dr Peter Lind

The Council is structured in teams for service delivery.

Corporate Services

Christine Murcott (Manager)

  • ICT Programme management and support
  • Finance
  • HR operational policy and infrastructure
  • Audit and Risk
  • Legislative compliance
  • Special Projects management
  • Security
  • Reporting

Non Teacher Police Vetting

Christine Murcott (Manager)

  • Police vetting of non teachers and contractors

Registration Services

Jenny Thomas (Manager)

  • Provisional and subject to confirmation registration
  • Full registration
  • Practising certificate issue and renewal
  • Limited authority to teach (LAT)
  • Maintenance of the register of teachers
  • Contact Centre

Maintenance of Professional Standards

Linda Gendall (Manager)

  • Competence reviews
  • Complaints Assessment Committee
  • Disciplinary Tribunal
  • Legal advice
  • Effective teaching practice
  • Mandatory reports and complaints

Teacher Education

Awaiting appointment (Manager)

Approval and reapproval of Initial Teacher Education programmes for each of the sectors:

  • Early Childhood sector
  • Primary sector
  • Secondary sector

Policy and Strategic Development

Cynthia Shaw (Manager)

  • Policy
  • Research
  • Special professional projects management
  • Communications
  • Strategic Development

These teams are responsible through the Director to a Council of 11 members.

Reporting

All managers report to the Director. Monthly Council meetings provide governance, strategic direction and make certain key operational decisions, for example, those relating to registration and the maintenance of professional standards and teacher education programmes.

The Council carries out its governance responsibilities through the

  • Statement of Intent
  • Quarterly reports
  • Compliance reports
  • Annual Report
  • Monthly Financial Statements
  • Interim and Annual Audits
  • Appointment of the Director, and the Director's employment agreement.

3.2 The Council

Chair Kathy Smith
Elected representatives  
Early Childhood Margaret Wilson
Primary Jill Page
Secondary Steve Wood
Principals Nola Hambleton
Nominated by  
New Zealand Educational Institute / Te Riu Roa Diane Leggett
New Zealand Post Primary Teachers Association Irene Symes
New Zealand School Trustees Association Barbara Arnott
Ministerial appointment Lyn Brash
Ministerial appointment Margaret Franken
Ministerial appointment Awaiting Appointment

3.3 Risk Management

The Council reviews strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities when developing its strategic documentation. The Council has established an effective infrastructural development including the efficiency and effectiveness of core operational (e.g. registration processes), financial, corporate support and governance environments and structures. The Council uses AS/NZS 4360:2004 as the basis of its Risk Management Framework.

3.4 Risk Management and Mitigation Strategies

The Council has an Audit and Risk Management Committee which meets at least quarterly. The committee reviews and provides advice to the Council on:
  • financial forecasting and budget development
  • quarterly and annual reports
  • compliance register, issue/action log, health and safety register and risk register
  • the draft strategic plan, draft statement of intent, purchase agreement and letter of expectation
  • the draft interim and annual audit reports
  • any internal review initiative that is commissioned by the Council or forms part of the internal audit programme.

The following schedule details the key risks that the Council must manage and indicates the associated mitigation strategy.

3.4.1. Capability and capacity

Risk

That the Council is unable to meet the service performance standards agreed with the Minister and described in this Statement of Intent. This risk may arise if key staff were not retained, or extra required staffing of a sufficient calibre could not be recruited. The risk may also arise if resources needed to be diverted from planned projects.

Mitigation

The Council is satisfied that the current and intended structure and staffing is appropriate for the forecast volume of activity. Sufficient resource has been allocated to contract additional staff where needed to manage projects, such as the Review of the Satisfactory Teacher Dimensions appropriately. Standard project management processes are used to ensure projects are managed effectively. A coaching approach to staff management is building internal capacity and capability.

Likelihood of the risk

Medium

3.4.2. Funding adequacy

Risk

That the Council may not generate sufficient revenue to complete the programme of activity described in the Statement of Intent.

Mitigation

The Council is satisfied that the approved fee structure will provide sufficient revenue to achieve the results required under this Statement of Intent for 2008-09. However, the Council notes that the last substantive review of registration fees was implemented in 2002. A review and adjustment will be required by the 2010-11 financial year in order to maintain the current level of service.

Likelihood of the risk

Medium

3.4.3. Stakeholder relationships

Risk

That the Council loses the goodwill and support of the sector to the detriment of achieving its statutory obligations. It may fail to gain support for initiatives that need wide stakeholder buy in.

Mitigation

The Council's Communication Strategy is designed to secure and maintain support from the profession for activities that enhance the status of teachers and teaching. Communication plans for each project, and involvement of stakeholders in reference groups and working groups help ensure the Council works in cooperation with the

profession and gains support for its initiatives.

The Council maintains a programme of regular contact and communication with key stakeholder groups and will continue to create and accept as many opportunities as possible to meet and discuss matters of mutual interest with teachers and related parties. Feedback will provide valuable information to inform practices and strategic direction.

Likelihood of the risk

Medium

3.4.4. Information & Communication Technology systems upgrade

Risk

That the Council's Information & Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure is inadequate to meet the projected level of demand.

Mitigation

Monitoring, maintenance and enhancement of the stable infrastructure now well established at the Council. Use systems reporting tools to ensure ICT media are working and there is a high standard of procedure for business continuity/disaster recovery.

Likelihood of the risk

Low

3.4.5. By Election

Risk

That the Council is required to hold a by election for one or more elected member(s) to the Council.

Mitigation

The Council will contract the management of the election process to an appropriately qualified service provider in sufficient time to ensure the associated risks are identified and addressed and will inform the sector through regular communication using multiple media.

Likelihood of the risk

Low

3.4.6. Unexpected increase in complaints about competency and fitness to teach

Risk

That the Council has underestimated the level of complaints it has and will receive.

Mitigation

The Council has provided a specific contingency provision that has been calculated to be sufficient to accommodate a percentage increase in complaints above those estimated in the assumptions.

Likelihood of the risk

Low

3.4.7. Teachers remain outside the registration system

Risk

Teachers remain outside the registration system and yet are actively teaching in schools without holding the required registration and a current practising certificate.

Mitigation

The Council is actively working with the Ministry of Education to share data concerning those teachers registered and those teachers being paid. The Council has already planned a 13 step mitigation schedule and would invoke this schedule to ensure full compliance.

Likelihood of the risk

High

3.4.8. Disaster Response

Risk

Natural disaster and/or systems failure.

Mitigation

The Council has been communicating with staff through regular documentation, bulletins and advice through a range of internal and external media in preparation for a possible disaster. The Council has a comprehensive disaster recovery/business continuity plan, extended to include such scenario as a pandemic or epidemic. The Council is aware that it has legislative and regulatory requirements to maintain its business and service.

Likelihood of the risk

Low

Appendix 1 Legislative Framework and Governance

The Council is an autonomous Crown Entity established in 2002 under the provisions of the Education Standards Act 2001 and Education Act 1989, plus amendments.

The New Zealand Teachers Council is governed by a Council of eleven members, consisting of four members appointed by the Minister, including the Council Chair; three nominated respectively by NZEI, NZPPTA, NZSTA; three elected by registered teachers from each of the following sectors, early childhood, primary and secondary; and one representative elected by school principals.

The Council takes cognisance of the State Services guidelines on Board Appointments and Induction, and maintains guiding documentation for its members in the form of a comprehensive governance manual, as well as requiring the accurate and timely maintenance of an Interests Register.

Two committees and two advisory bodies support the governance work of the Council:

  • The Audit and Risk Management Committee monitors all significant expenditure proposals, legislative compliance and financial reports, and financial strategy/budget papers, before these are recommended to the Council for final decisions.
  • The Professional Leadership Committee provides detailed analysis of professional papers and issues, and monitors the development, implementation and evaluation of professional projects, prior to making recommendations to the Council for final decisions.
  • The Early Childhood Education Advisory Group (ECEAG) provides the Council with advice regarding any of its responsibilities relating to teachers and others working in early childhood educational settings. The composition of the ECEAG ensures that a range and balance of expertise, knowledge and experience informs the work of the Council.
  • The Māori Medium Advisory Group is an expert panel, which provides the Council with advice regarding any of its responsibilities relating to teachers and others in the field of Māori medium education.

Besides the governance role, the Council has processes by which it considers issues of teacher competence and conduct.

There are two bodies to which conduct issues are referred:

  • All conduct issues must initially come to the Complaints Assessment Committee (CAC). The CAC currently operates as two independent panels, although the Council plans to have a third panel operating in the 2008-09 financial year. CAC panels have Council members and selected non-Council members. The CAC seeks to resolve as many cases as appropriate by agreement with the teacher concerned and the complainant.
  • Cases that the CAC deem to meet the criteria of serious misconduct are sent to the Disciplinary Tribunal. The Tribunal is chaired by an experienced barrister and operates as a 5-member panel. It is also comprised of Council members and selected non-Council members and considers cases of serious misconduct.

Issues of teacher competence are referred to a competency assessor, the Senior Advisor Teacher Practice, who conducts an investigation. On completion of such an investigation, a report is made to the full Council who make a final decision on the competence matter.

Appendix 2 Functions of the Council

The functions and powers given to the Council, under Part 10 of the Education Act 1989, form the basis of its key strategic initiatives. These are:
a) to provide professional leadership to teachers and others involved in schools and early childhood education

b) to encourage best teaching practice

c) to carry out the functions relating to teacher registration

d) to determine standards for teacher registration and the issue of practising certificates

e) to establish and maintain standards for qualifications that lead to teacher registration

f) to conduct, in conjunction with quality assurance agencies, approvals of teacher education programmes on the basis of the standards referred to above

g) to develop a code of ethics for teachers

h) to exercise the disciplinary functions relating to teacher misconduct and reports of teacher convictions

i) to set the criteria for reporting serious misconduct and for reporting on competence issues

j) to exercise the functions relating to teacher competence

k) to coordinate a system providing for the vetting by police of all teachers and other people employed in schools and early childhood services

l) to identify research priorities and where appropriate, to promote and sponsor research according to those priorities

m) to exercise any other functions conferred on it by this Act, or by the Minister.

Section 139AE of the Education Act 1989

Appendix 3 Current Staff Profile (March 2008)

Staff Profile Survey: Gender/Age and Ethnicity

   

Number of Staff

40

Percentage of the staff

Gender

   

Male

11

27.50%

Female

29

72.50%

     

Age

   

20-29

10

25%

30-39

5

12.50%

40-49

10

25.90%

50-59

11

27.50%

60-69

4

10%

     

Ethnicity Distribution

   

New Zealander

31

77.50%

Māori

2 5%

British/Irish

2 5%

Chinese

1

2.50%

European

1

2.50%

Samoan

1

2.50%

Tokelauan/Tongan

1

2.50%

Other

1

2.50%

Workplace Profile Status/Job type

   

Number of Staff

40

Percentage of the staff

Managers

6

15%

Team Leaders

2 5%

Administrative Assistants

6

15%

Customer Services

4

10%

ICT Specialists

2 5%

Accountant

1

2.50%

Legal Administrators

2 5%

Receipting

2 5%

Registration Officers

10

22.50%

Policy and Research

3

7.50%

Teacher Practice

1

2.50%

Non Teacher Police Vetting Officers

2 5%

Number of Staff Permanent Fulltime 37 92.50%
Number of staff Permanent Part time 3 7.50%

Appendix 4 Seven Elements of a Good Employer Programme

The descriptors below outline where the Council has actioned and achieved results to date and these elements will be reviewed and reported on in the Council's Annual Report.

Leadership, Accountability and Culture

Formal Policies

  • Managers are accountable for providing EEO and managing diversity
  • Specific policies relating to minority or at risk groups.

Informal Practice/Programmes

  • Employees and their representatives participate in organisational decisions.

Recruitment, Selection and Induction

Formal Policies

  • Impartial, transparent employment process
  • No barriers or bias to employing the best people for the job.

Informal Practice/Programmes

  • diverse networks used to recruit.

Employee Development, Promotion and Exit

Formal Policies

  • Positive equitable approach to developing all employees
  • Equal access to job opportunities and conditions
  • Equitable treatment for all employees to move up, through and out of the organisation
  • Transparent and fair staff development practices in training, coaching, mentoring, promotion and performance management.

Flexibility and Work Design

Formal Policies

  • Workplace design that incorporates good work scoping & planning
  • Workplace design that assists employees balance work with the rest of their lives
  • Consideration of flexible work practices to accommodate staff employment requirements.

Remuneration, Recognition and Conditions

Formal Policies

  • Equitable, transparent and gender neutral remuneration system
  • Recognition of employee contributions.

Informal Practice/Programmes

  • Staff input into tailoring Remuneration Packages and Benefits
  • Personal and Professional development.

Harassment and Bullying Prevention

Formal Policies

  • Zero tolerance of all forms of harassment and bullying
  • Formal Sexual Harassment Policy
  • Managers and staff trained on their rights and responsibilities
  • Policy and procedure for addressing harassment complaints.

Safe and Healthy Environment

Formal Policies

  • Pro-active approach to employee health safety and well-being
  • Managers and staff trained on their rights and responsibilities
  • Obstacles for people with disabilities reduced.

Informal Practice/Programmes

  • Environment that supports and encourages employee participation in health and safety.