Education minister and principals' federation at odds over recent speech
Saturday 26 September 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story Erica Stanford, New Zealand Principals' Federation
The Education Minister and the New Zealand Principals' Federation are in conflict following a speech delivered at the International Confederation of Principals Convention. The federation described the speech as disrespectful, disappointing, and embarrassing.
Key facts
4 facts
- Erica Stanford is the Minister of Education.
- Jason Miles is the president of the New Zealand Principals' Federation.
- The dispute follows a speech at the International Confederation of Principals Convention.
- The Ombudsman is investigating allegations regarding the subversion of the Official Information Act by Ministry of Education officials.
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Education Minister Erica Stanford and New Zealand Principals' Federation (NZPF) president Jason Miles are in a dispute following a speech at the International Confederation of Principals Convention. The NZPF described the speech as embarrassing, disappointing and disrespectful. Stanford responded by calling Miles' behaviour rude, aggressive and unprofessional.
Miles claimed Stanford used the global stage to promote party policies, despite the convention coordinator reportedly instructing her office that the speech should not be political. He stated that the minister failed to recognise the International Confederation of Principals president and executive sitting in front of her. Miles also noted that Stanford omitted the NZPF from a list of nine groups she acknowledged for their help.
Stanford maintained that she used the speech to praise progress in the education system and said she had thanked the NZPF. She stated that Miles' comments did not accurately reflect her speech, which is available online. Regarding meetings, Stanford said she had met with the NZPF previously but could not meet more often due to her many commitments.
The dispute occurs as the NZPF proposes an independent curriculum and assessment council to prevent disruptive reforms. Additionally, the Ombudsman is investigating allegations that Ministry of Education officials attempted to subvert the Official Information Act.
Where reports differ
- Stanford claimed she had thanked the NZPF in her speech, while Miles stated the organisation was omitted from her acknowledgements.
Compiled from reports by Otago Daily Times and 1News.