Staff at Cottingham High School have embarked on their sixth day of strike action amid concerns over potential compulsory redundancies linked to the planned closure of the sixth form. The school, which educates over 1,200 high school pupils and approximately 200 sixth form students, is part of The Consortium Academy Trust. This organization supervises ten academies across East Yorkshire. The National Education Union (NEU) is leading the strike, protesting against planned changes in lesson planning that could impact teachers' workloads.
The industrial action has already caused disruptions over the last two weeks, with further strikes provisionally scheduled for three days next week. Moreover, four days of strike action are planned each week throughout February. A crucial meeting between the NEU and The Consortium Academy Trust is set for Friday, where both parties aim to negotiate a resolution.
The NEU has expressed concerns that the proposed changes could result in redundancies for two staff members, with fears that this number could increase significantly. Teachers involved in the strike emphasize that they have been "left with no choice" but to take this action. Mr. Scott, a representative of the NEU, highlighted the urgency of seeking an assurance on redundancies and establishing a policy to protect staff within the new framework.
"Seek an assurance on redundancies, and come away with a policy in place to safeguard staff within the new framework." – Mr. Scott
As the school approaches its long-standing history since its founding in the late 1950s, the possibility of further disruptions looms large. Mr. Scott has reiterated the commitment of union members to continue their strike action if necessary.
"Members know exactly what they have to do, what they're being forced to do, and have notified for more strike action throughout February as well if it becomes necessary." – Mr. Scott
Despite the ongoing protest, staff members express a preference for returning to their primary role as educators rather than participating in picket lines.
"Staff obviously don't want to be on the picket line. Staff would rather be in the school teaching the kids." – Steve Scott
The Consortium Academy Trust maintains its commitment to ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving the current dispute. As both sides prepare for Friday's meeting, there is a shared hope for a constructive dialogue that could bring an end to the industrial action and secure a stable future for both staff and students at Cottingham High School.
