The Ministry of Education has announced significant updates to the Pay Parity Opt-In Scheme, which will impact all education and care providers, including hospital-based providers.
Providers must make their election by Monday, 9 June 2025. After this date, a two-year moratorium will apply, preventing providers from moving to a higher salary scale until July 2027. This makes the upcoming deadline a critical decision point for providers.
What’s Changing?
1. Initial Salary Step Flexibility
From 1 July 2025, providers opting into the scheme will have more flexibility in setting the initial salary step for:
• Newly certificated teachers
• Certificated teachers new to the NZ ECE sector (e.g., primary teachers transitioning to ECE)
These providers will no longer need to consider qualification groups, prior experience, or recognised service when setting the initial step — but must still pay at least step 1 of the salary scale.
2. Moratorium on Higher Scale Attestation
Providers currently attesting to Parity or Extended Parity salary scales will be locked into their current level for two years after the July 2025 funding period. They can still move to a lower scale during this time, but not a higher one.
What Should You Do?
• Review your current attestation level and assess whether moving to a higher band before 9 June is in your best interest.
• Consult with your leadership team and financial advisors to understand the long-term implications.
• Act now — the decision you make before Monday, 9 June 2025 will affect your funding and staffing flexibility for the next two years.
Pathfinder Solutions is here to support you.
If you’re unsure about the best course of action or need help navigating the changes, please get in touch with us before the deadline. We’re happy to guide you through the process and ensure you make the most informed decision for your service.
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