Tewkesbury Academy teachers continue strike over pupil behaviour concerns
Unresolved issues prompt further action in Gloucestershire school
Teachers at Tewkesbury Academy in Gloucestershire plan further strike action due to unresolved behaviour management issues involving a minority of pupils.
Members of NASUWT-The Teachers’ Union will strike again from today (23rd February), continuing their efforts from the initial strike that began on 4th February.
Negotiations with the Cabot Learning Federation, which oversees the academy, have failed to make significant headway in tackling the problems faced by staff.
Consequently, nine additional days of strike action have been announced, with strikes scheduled for 23rd, 24th, and 25th February, and continuing on 4th, 5th, 6th, 11th, 12th, and 13th March.
Jane Peckham from NASUWT emphasized that teachers are seeking a safe work environment and should not have to endure verbal abuse or threats.
Wendy Exton, NASUWT National Executive Member for Gloucestershire, advocated for concrete solutions to safeguard both staff and pupils from violence and abuse.
The union remains open to further dialogue to find a resolution, urging academy management to address the concerns raised.
Picketing outside the school is planned for each strike day from 7am to 9.30am.
A spokesperson for Tewkesbury Academy said: “Some staff at Tewkesbury Academy have voted to participate in strikes organised by the National Education Union and teachers’ union NASUWT. This action primarily relates to the management of behaviour of a small minority of students and the implementation of approaches designed to improve standards for all children.
“We are surprised and saddened that unions have opted for action despite the significant progress which has been made in our talks. Nevertheless, we remain firmly committed to negotiating in good faith to reduce disruption for families and to ensure all children in our town can enjoy a good education and success in life.”