Second day of strikes at St Cuthbert's as school dispute persists
Ongoing dialogue has yet to yield resolution amid industrial action
The second day of continued strikes at St Cuthbert’s RC High School in Rochdale sees National Education Union (NEU) members back on the picket line, while ongoing negotiations with the school management remain unresolved.
The dispute has arisen as union representatives voice serious concerns over employer proposals for a staff restructure, which they argue were poorly planned and not properly consulted with staff members.
Jim Dye, Senior Representation Officer in the North West for the NEU, stated, "The dispute has arisen as a last resort, but it's essentially around employer proposals for the restructure that we believe were badly thought out, they were not consulted properly, and that threaten a number of jobs within the school that we believe will have a negative impact on the learning in the future of pupils in the school.”
Actions and response
The trustees of the school, under the St Teresa of Calcutta Trust, continue to stress their willingness to address union concerns, focusing their dialogue on issues such as behaviour management, health and safety, workload, and overall staff wellbeing.
Recently approved changes to the staffing structure are intended to deliver clearer leadership and improve areas like pastoral care and inclusion, without resorting to compulsory redundancies. However, the union highlights potential risks that the current structure might pose to job security and student learning.
The Trust is open to further discussions and remains committed to finding a resolution, while the NEU advocates for a more thoughtful approach that truly considers the implications for staff and students alike.
Effects on students
During strike days, students in Years 7 to 10 face school closures and will undertake remote learning activities.
Year 11 students continue their studies in-person, aiming to maintain continuity, especially important during exam periods. Provisions for vulnerable students and those eligible for free school meals remain in place.
The industrial action is an extension of previous strikes by both NEU and NASUWT staff members, with frustrations evident between all parties involved in the discussions.
The school community, including parents, remains vigilant, hopeful for a resolution that prioritises a stable, supportive educational environment for all.