Industrial Action Update – Student Arrangements

 Dear Parents & Carers,

I am writing following this morning’s meeting with NEU union representatives to provide a clear update.

At the start of the meeting, I set out a structured and constructive approach to resolving the current situation. This was built around two defined tracks:

• Track 1 – a formal mandate track, addressing behaviour, consistency, and staff safety
• Track 2 – an associated concerns track, focused on the wider issues raised by staff

This approach was designed to enable swift progress on the formal areas under dispute, while also creating a clear and meaningful route to address the broader, associated concerns colleagues have raised.

However, the union confirmed that they continue to hold the position that all of their asks raised in a previous meeting form part of the original mandate for industrial action. As a result, it was not possible to progress the discussion beyond this point or move into detailed consideration of the actions and plans we had prepared to resolve the formal areas of dispute.

Despite this, I reiterated my commitment to working with all staff on the associated concerns that have been raised. Following the meeting, a document was shared with union representatives setting out the actions already taken and the progress made across all areas. This also clearly identifies which elements relate directly to the impact of the formal mandate and which form part of the wider associated concerns.

We remain committed to:

• improving behaviour and consistency as a priority
• progressing the actions already underway
• continuing constructive engagement with staff
• delivering practical and tangible improvements

My priority remains to ensure a safe, consistent environment for staff and students, and to minimise disruption to pupils’ education. I remain committed to securing a resolution to postpone the strike dates for Monday 22nd and Tuesday 23rd June, and have asked the NEU Branch Secretary to pause strike action, to demonstrate the NEU’s commitment to working towards a solution, and to confirm their decision to me by 4pm on Sunday.

In preparation for the anticipated industrial action and disruption at the Academy next week, please find the timetable below.

I will continue to keep you updated as the situation develops.

Yours sincerely

Mrs K Cooper

Senior Principal