School staff in 'last resort' strike over job cuts

Teachers and support staff will walk out at a Kent secondary school on Tuesday in a dispute over job losses, their union says.

Goodwin Academy in Deal informed some staff in May they would face compulsory redundancy, according to the National Education Union (NEU).

The BBC understands the school is making five support staff roles redundant.

A Goodwin Academy spokesperson said: "We are committed to continuing to provide the highest quality education for our students and the best working environment for our staff."

As well as Tuesday's walk-out, NEU members at the school will strike on 12 June, 18 to 19 June, and 24 to 26 June.

South Kent NEU joint secretary Jamie Pout said industrial action was "a last resort" but it was "very clear that these cuts to front line staffing will have significant negative impact on the education the children at Goodwin receive".

The trust must "clearly show they understand it is unacceptable for children to suffer the consequences of inadequate school funding", he added.

The NEU said 60% of its 49 members at the school took part in May's ballot on industrial action, all of whom voted to strike.

The union added it was negotiating with the academy trust but opposed compulsory redundancies and was concerned that not replacing staff who choose leave the school would increase workloads.

Goodwin Academy, which currently has over 800 pupils, said it was "continuing to work closely" with affected staff to "provide them support throughout this process".

A spokesperson added: "These are very difficult decisions and we value all our team, but it is no secret that schools across the country are facing exceptionally challenging financial conditions and the impact of falling birth rates.

"It is therefore vital we take proactive action now to remain financially sound, while not compromising on the excellent education and care our students receive."

Goodwin Academy is run by the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, which manages 24 schools in total.

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