STRIKING teachers took to the picket line this morning outside Grays Convent High School as they demanded answers over proposed restructuring plans reports the Local Democracy Reporter.
The National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Union Women Teachers (NASUWT) has claimed many staff could lose their jobs as early as August as part of the new proposals.
Concerns have also been raised about the impact of fewer teachers, including increased workloads for those who remain.
The Local Democracy Service attended this morning’s strikes, where teachers claimed they had been “left in the dark” over the plans.
Strike action has already taken place on May 5, 12, 19, 20 and 21, with further walkouts planned for tomorrow and Wednesday.
English and Media Studies teacher, head of careers of PSHEC, Donna Hector said: “I’m out here striking for our teachers who are dedicated and work incredibly hard.
“They do a great job but their core and foundation has been shaken by a governing body that is not listening.
“They are making a decision with the consultation which could really destroy the core and the foundation of the school if they continue down this trajectory.
“It is disappointing that I am not able to be in the school today, but I feel for its long term and this is why I am here to make sure teachers have successful years to come.”
English teacher Mo Coughlan added: “The consultation hasn’t been a consultation in any real meaningful way.
“A lot of information was dropped on us on February 9, telling us what they were going to do and by that stage they had included an outside HR firm.
“They did not ask us for any information or ideas, in essence they presented us something following consultation.
“I teach English, Literacy and Media Studies and those extracurricular activities are in real danger of not continuing next year.”
The number of redundancies has not been officially announced, however several teachers claimed to not feel secure in their roles.
One teacher, who asked not to be named, added: “Our roles are so important to the school, and, honestly, it’s just saddening.
“There’s no other word that I can say. It’s sad and we enjoy what we do, we enjoy our roles and we enjoy teaching the children.”
Representatives from the NASUWT and the National Education Union (NEU) were also in attendance at the strikes to show their support with teachers.
Murray Sackwild, the executive of the NEU said: “There is barely any negotiation going on, they have basically set down what they wish to do.
“They won’t consult appropriately over it and this is why members, you know, staff are reluctantly having to take strike action. It’s not something that people want to do.
“They want to be in classrooms, teaching students. Unfortunately, the governing body are making that impossible at the moment because they’re coming up with ideas, without any consultation. It’s just not a satisfactory position.”
The school did not reply when repeatedly contacted for comment.
Categories: Restructure
Authorities: Thurrock Council
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