Staff join picket line outside The Deepings School ahead of two-day strike

School staff formed a picket line this morning as a result of on-going issues in the workplace.

Teachers and support staff from The Deepings School called a two-day strike after bosses failed to uphold promises made earlier this year.

Members of two teaching unions had raised concerns about poor pupil behaviour, excessive workloads and staff not being consulted on changes to working practices.

Senior leaders and managers from The Anthem Schools Trust, which manages the school, pledged to keep staff informed of any changes, but they say this has not happened.

The school also pulled its sixth form intake at the last minute this term after only 10 pupils applied to study A-Levels this year.

Regional officer for the National Education Union East Midlands, Gareth Jones, joined the picket line this morning. He said: “It’s a real shame that we’ve not been able to resolve the issues. Education staff only take strike action as a last resort.

“It’s imperative that the leadership of the multi-academy trust returns to the negotiating table with a willingness to genuinely address members’ concerns and make the positive changes that are desperately needed for staff and students alike.”

The staff will strike again tomorrow (Wednesday) but the school remains open for all pupils.

Do you support the decision to strike? Have your say in the comments below.