Staff at Lenzie Academy, which serves over 1,300 pupils in East Dunbartonshire, have voted overwhelmingly in favor of strike action due to serious fire safety concerns. A consultative ballot held among members took place on the recommended strike action Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) showed 95 percent backing for industrial action. A Fire Safety Report released in November documented a “serious risk to life” from their lack of fire safety at the school. This exceptionally disturbing finding led to the decision.
Questions about Lenzie Academy’s safety have lingered since 2021, when the first replacement plans were announced. The employer has for months been aware of the fire safety hazards. Issues like broken fire doors and non-functional fire exits continue to be left unfixed. EIS area officer Bora Oktas underscored how serious that is, explaining that
“The employer has been fully aware of the fire safety risks at Lenzie Academy for months – risks that their own assessment describes as a ‘substantial risk to life.’ Yet, broken fire doors remain unrepaired and staff are saying the situation has not improved.”
The official ballot for formal strike action is open until January 30. Teachers and staff at Lenzie Academy are understandably fed up. They are going to feel like their safety and well-being is being tossed aside. Oktas underscored that strike action doesn’t come easily, showing it as a last resort. He emphasized that this decision really should boil down to protecting the health and safety of students and faculty members.
“Strike action is always a last resort, but this is about protecting pupils and staff from unacceptable risks.” – Bora Oktas
In reaction to these turns of events, Ann Davie, the council’s chief executive, expressed deep disappointment at the prospect of strike action. She acknowledged the council’s commitment to addressing the issues raised while ensuring minimal disruption to students’ education.
“Any strike action is regrettable and we will continue to work with all parties to do everything we can to avoid disruption to pupils’ learning,” – Ann Davie
Davie placed special importance on showing what safety measures were in place already to reassure parents and community members that,
“It is important to stress that the school remains safe for pupils, teachers and staff to occupy.” – Ann Davie
Here’s what one local campaigner had to say about moving Lenzie Academy to new premises at Whitegates Park. They’re understandably concerned that they might lose precious, irreplaceable greenspace right in the city. As discussions surrounding the academy’s future continue, both staff and parents remain vigilant about ensuring that student safety is prioritized.
