Secondary teachers in New Zealand schools are being invited to take part in the 2016 Secondary Teacher Census.

The Ministry of Education is calling on any secondary teachers in New Zealand state and state-integrated schools who have taught at Year 9 or above at any point since 2013 to take part.

The 2016 Secondary Teacher Census aims to provide the sector with up-to-date data on supply and demand patterns.

The Census asks teachers questions are professional learning and future plans for the education sector.

According to the Ministry of Education, the Census is designed to provide the education sector with up-to-date data on supply and demand patterns.

A summary of the findings, including a snapshot of each subject, will be released in June and will enable teachers to see where their specialties may be most valued in the future. This is particularly important for subjects and areas currently in demand, such as maths, science, technology and Māori medium.

“Adding your piece will help to create the big picture,” the Ministry says.

 Information packs will be sent to secondary school principals soon with an invitation for teachers to complete the Census.

It will take about 15 minutes to complete and is also available in te reo Māori. All information submitted as part of the Census is anonymous and cannot be linked to an individual or school, the Ministry says.

“Independent research company Nielsen is conducting the survey on behalf of the Ministry of Education and has designed the questions to gather the most valuable information while keeping it quick and easy for teachers.

“The Census is a great opportunity for the secondary teaching community to add their piece and see where the profession is heading,” it says.