The teachers' union in Latvia has raised concerns about violations in the employment and responsibilities of kindergarten aides, indicating that many perform pedagogical duties alone, which contravenes existing regulations.
The Latvian teachers' union has made formal complaints to the labor inspectorate regarding significant violations in the employment practices concerning kindergarten aides, known locally as 'bērnudārza auklīši.' Approximately 3,500 aides work in early childhood education settings. Unlike teaching assistants in schools, who are classified as educational personnel, these aides are considered technical staff under current regulations. This distinction is crucial because it directly pertains to their roles and responsibilities in early childhood education.
A survey conducted by the union revealed that about 80% of the kindergarten aides provide individual support in children's learning, while nearly 70% clarify tasks, which are typically educational duties. The issue highlighted by Inga Vanaga, the chairperson of the union, holds that aides frequently undertake these pedagogical roles independently, without a supervising teacher present. This raises serious concerns about adherence to norms that officially prohibit aides from conducting such educational work alone, thereby questioning their training and the efficacy of the educational support provided to children.
This disclosure comes against the backdrop of ongoing discussions within the Saeima's Higher Education, Science, and Human Capital Subcommittee. The union's focus on this matter underscores a larger systemic issue regarding the classification and treatment of early childhood education staff in Latvia. As the union advocates for better regulation and adherence to labor laws, the implications of these findings may lead to increased scrutiny of employment practices in the education sector and push for reforms that could enhance educational standards and staff accountability in kindergartens.
