School strikes next week in Sutherland – all schools closed on Tuesday and Wednesday
A letter sent out by the executive chief officer education and learning to all parents and guardians of pupils outlined the industrial action which will affect Sutherland schools next week.
The letter from Nicky Grant explained how the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) has indicated its intention to take strike action on Tuesday, February 28 and Wednesday, March 1 across all Highland Council schools.
Ms Grant said that the action is part of a national dispute regarding pay.
She continued: "The safe supervision of children and young people is of the utmost importance and given that we anticipate significantly reduced numbers of both management and teaching staff in schools and early learning and childcare settings, a decision has been made to close all schools to pupils.
"I apologise for the inconvenience this will cause, however it is hoped that by communicating this decision early that it will allow parents/carers to plan ahead. While the council has been formally notified by teacher unions of their intention to strike, there are on-going discussions at a national level and this may result in strike action being averted, if this is the case then you will be notified of this through the council website www.highland.gov.uk our social media platforms, as well as your child’s usual school communication channels."
In summary, on Tuesday, February 28 and Wednesday, March 1:
- All primary schools including local authority ELC and out of school care settings will be closed to pupils.
- All secondary schools will be closed to pupils.
- All special schools and off-site provision will be closed to pupils.
- BACS payments will be made for those children and young people entitled to a free school meal based on low income (not universal entitlement).
- School crossing patrols will not operate on this day.
- School transport will not operate on this day.
