We have been informed by NEU Trade Union there will be two days of strike action by their teacher members on Wednesday, 5th and Friday, 7th July 2023. The strike is happening because of a national dispute between the unions and the government. The NEU explain: “This is not about a pay rise but correcting historic real-terms pay cuts. Teachers have lost 23% in real terms since 2010, and support staff 27% over the same period. The average 5% pay rise for teachers this year is some 7% behind inflation. In the midst of a cost of living crisis, that is an unsustainable situation”.
As Headteacher, I have assessed the impact of the strike action on the school and after careful consideration have decided that the school will have to close to pupils. Due to the numbers of staff involved, there will be serious operational difficulties which could impact the safety of pupils and staff.
This decision has not been taken lightly and we regret having to take this action but feel that there will not be sufficient staff in school to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the children. All children will be provided with Mathletics and Reading Eggs tasks on their online platforms to complete for the day. You may also complete the topic homework which was sent out earlier this term.
Our sincere apologies for the difficulties that these arrangements will cause parents/carers but unfortunately these are circumstances beyond our control.
The school will open as normal on Thursday 6th and Monday 10th July 2023. If you have any queries or concerns, please let me know.