Six days of strike action have already taken place at South end’s Alleyn Court Preparatory School throughout July, with teachers taking a stand against removing their access to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme. Things haven’t been the best with economies crumbling but surely this is not the right way to handle it.
Members of the National Education Union (NEU) have now voted to continue their fight, with staff who are part of the union having already taken part in the industrial action. Bosses at the NEU say the dispute is set to escalate as further action is now likely, if the trust continue with their “no compromise stance”.
Paul McLaughlin, regional secretary, quoted that “It is deeply regrettable that there have been no meaningful talks to resolve this dispute. Members are prepared to compromise and the union has put forward a reasonable solution. The last thing that children need, at the start of the new academic year, is further action with the inevitable disruption to their education. During the recent industrial action, the school brought in retirees and unqualified teachers to cover lessons, this cannot be a substitute for experienced and qualified teachers.”
When previously contacted by the Echo at the beginning of July, the chair of trustees for the Alleyn Court Educational Trust assured a variety of options had been explored when it came to any proposed pension changes.
Labour MP Barry Gardiner also joined in the picket line protests at the school earlier this month. Mr McLaughlin, continued: “Many of the children are due to sit their 11 plus on September 18, with this in mind members have decided not to take further action prior to the week of September 20. There is an opportunity between now and September 20 for the trust to come to the table and negotiate a fair settlement to this dispute. Members are being threatened with fire and rehire and have been told to expect this over the summer break. This is not an acceptable way to treat staff.”
A trustee from the school added: “Some of this information is incorrect. We hope to continue to discuss all issues with all parties involved to enable resolution.”
