Industrial Action - 11th September

Dear parents and carers,

I am sorry to be writing with the news that the NEU have informed us this evening of their decision to go ahead with the planned industrial action tomorrow.

This is deeply disappointing on two counts. Firstly, as you know from my letters this term we believe we have addressed their main concern, which relates to staff terms and conditions, making explicitly clear that these will be protected as the school converts to become an academy. And secondly, we had proposed pausing that process to allow for further discussion and engagement.

Whilst we will continue to do everything we can to avert further strike days, this does mean that Swanshurst will be open only for Years 7, 11 and 13 tomorrow with all other year groups on home working. Details are provided here: WMAT Q&A | Swanshurst School. 

Pupils in Years 8, 9, 10 and 12 will not be in school and have been set a day of home-learning activities to complete on Edulink.

We are unable to provide on-site provision for children of all critical workers. Therefore, in line with guidance, we are prioritising places for Year 8, 9, 10 and 12 pupils whose parents/carers work in the NHS or Emergency Services. If you work in these sectors, and your child is in a year group that is not in school tomorrow, you can request for them to attend. Also, if your child is not in school tomorrow and they are eligible for free school meals, you can request for a packed lunch to be made available for collection. Please click here to provide further information: https://forms.office.com/e/rfRk8AN5Wv. Please note that you may be required to provide evidence of your employment.

This is a hugely frustrating position to be in, but we will do everything we can to minimise the disruption to your child’s education as a result of the strike.

We are seeking a meeting with the NEU at their earliest availability to discuss the further planned dates and will continue to explore all avenues to avert further strike days. As ever, we will make sure you are fully informed of any developments as soon as we have them.

Please do get in touch if you have any questions, but in the meantime thank you for your understanding.

Yours sincerely,

Mr M Dunn

Head Teacher                                                     

Swanshurst School