Monday 30^th January 2023

Dear Parents/Carers

Strike Action – Wednesday 1st February 2023

Following on from our previous communication, regarding the National Education Union (NEU) industrial strike action, taking place on Wednesday 1^st February, we are now writing to provide an update on our school situation.

Teachers in the NEU union have had to make the difficult decision whether or not to take strike action. The strikes are not only focussed on pay and conditions but also on the future of our education system where children should be at the heart of every decision made. The financial impact on schools can have devastating effects on levels of staffing and resources.

Some teachers at our school, who belong to the NEU, have made the decision to take strike action in solidarity with their national colleagues and are demanding the Government listen to the concerns of the profession. Those taking strike action stop work and withdraw their labour, meaning that those teachers involved in the action will not teach their class or undertake any other duties on a strike day. Therefore, work will not be set for those classes affected by strike action. However, children do have access to Times Tables Rock-stars, reading books and spelling practice.

The intention of strike action is to cause disruption to the Government, however, all members of staff appreciate the disruption this will cause to families. Therefore, you will have received a text message today to inform you of whether your child’s class will be open or closed on Wednesday 1^st February. If you have not received a text message please contact the school office.

If your child’s class is closed and they are entitled to Free School Meals and you would like us to provide a packed lunch on 1st February (for collection from the school between 12:30 & 1pm), please complete the Google form e-mailed to you today.  Please ensure this form is completed by Tuesday at noon to allow the kitchen preparation time.

Finally, as a school we fully understand this strike action will cause some disruption and inconvenience. We ask you, however, to be understanding. A national strike by teachers is very unusual. Taking strike action is not something that any teacher would undertake lightly. Those on strike will have thought long and hard about their decision and will also lose pay for the day that they are on strike.

We are working closely with union representatives to keep up to date with the situation, and we will inform you as soon as possible if arrangements change further.

As always, we really do appreciate your understanding and support.

If you have any questions, please contact the school office.

Yours Sincerely

L. Harris and K. Sadler

Co-Headteachers