The early childhood education and social services NIAGs had their final close out hui last week which was an opportunity to reflect on the valuable contributions made and acknowledge the collective expertise and commitment of members.

Throughout 2025, both NIAGs have been a collective of voices from their respective sectors that advocate for their sector’s needs, provide advice on qualification reviews, discuss workforce challenges and needs, provide guidance, data and insights and have a passion for ensuring their workforces will be sustainable in the future.

Toitū te Waiora National Engagement Manager and Chair of the NIAGs Hera Williams says, ‘We have been so lucky to have had such a vast array of expertise, experience and knowledge on both of our NIAGs. Our members also provided us with access to their wider partnerships, which has been invaluable.’

She says the Social Services NIAG made a huge contribution to the Health & Wellbeing Cultural Capability micro-credentials and skill standards developed by Toitū te Waiora.

Carole Tana-Tepania Chief Executive | ME Family Services, Kahui member | Tangata Whenua Social Workers Association summarises her involvement with the Social Services NIAG:

‘To the Toitu te Waiora team, I want to acknowledge your exceptional welcome and commitment. Your professionalism and dedication to progressing the social service workforce NIAG work amidst the constant industry and political changes were truly inspiring to witness. The amount of mahi you achieved in such a short timeframe is remarkable—it makes me excited to imagine what can be accomplished under the ISB’s.

To all the NIAG members, I extend my deepest appreciation. The wealth of knowledge, passion, and determination you bring to the ongoing development of the workforce was evident in every communication and kōrero.

I thoroughly enjoyed contributing on behalf of TWSWA, specifically around the cultural skill standards. It has been a pleasure to work with you all and to make valuable connections across the social services sector.’

Hera Williams says the Early Childhood Education NIAG was a group of passionate and talented individuals who didn’t know each other before joining the NIAG. Since then, it has been great to see relationships form between members and new pieces of work in the ECE space begin as a result of this NIAG. The power of networking has been very real for this group.

Simon Laube, Chief Executive of the Early Childhood Council of New Zealand says, ‘Toitū te Waiora has shown excellent leadership and expertise.’ He has expressed the importance of continuing the ECE report and maintaining strong sector representation in future ISB structures.

Fiapaipai Casserley Kaiako, He Whānau Manaaki Kindergarten Association says, ‘The rich discussions, collaboration, and shared expertise over recent months have been exceptional.’

Hera says, ‘I’m proud of the Toitū te Waiora team who worked behind the scenes to make these NIAGs a success. It’s testament to them that every NIAG member is keen to contribute to the new Health & Community Industry Skills Board (ISB) to keep ensuring their voices are heard and their sectors are well represented when it comes to vocational education and training.’