Fair pay for NETs in Hong Kong

The recent changes to the Master Payscale has resulted in a disparity in pay between teachers in the Native English Teaching (NET) scheme in Hong Kong primary and secondary schools, based on the number of years teaching experience of each teacher and their reflected position on the payscale.





Specifically, the starting point on the pay scale for new teachers in primary schools has been increased to Point 17. Additional points are also given for possessing a teaching qualification such as a PDGE. Given that the starting point on the scale has increased by 5 points, to ensure equal pay to all teachers according to the numbers of years experience they have, all teachers salaries should be shifted upwards by 5 points. I am assuming that this issue affects teachers in secondary schools in a similar way.





As a result of the EdB's recently implemented changes, when current NET teacher's salaries are compared to newly recruited NETs, the current NET is earning the same as a new NET with 3 year's less experience than them. For example, a current serving NET with 2 or 3 year's experience is earning the same as a new NET with no experience. Theoretically, a current NET could resign and then be subsequently reemployed as a NET resulting in them earning 2 or 3 more points on the pay scale.





How can the current situation be fair to all NETS? Why should our experience be discredited in this way?





The aim of this petition is to collect signatures in order to highlight discontent among NETs regarding fair pay. The petition will then be presented to the Native English Speaking Teacher's Association (NESTA) before October 13th - the date of their AGM. The strength of the petition will determine what action could be taken by NESTA, if any.





Some of the issues facing NETs include: backpay from april 2007, a fair deal for NETs with kids, a review of the special allowance, assuring that NETs recruited to the scheme are qualified and other retention issues.





If you want to secure fair pay for all, among the other possible issues facing NETs the please sign the petition, or otherwise post your concerns on any of the egroups.





Many thanks,