School unions planning joint action

Education unions including the ASCL, NAHT, and NEU are encouraging their members in all schools in England to hold joint planning meetings on industrial action.

All the unions are balloting their members over strike action in the autumn term. In a letter to their members, their general secretaries state: “The education system has faced years of real-term pay erosion … As a result, the four largest teacher and leader unions are in the process of balloting members in order to secure a mandate for industrial action.

“In an almost unprecedented show of solidarity, all four of our unions have agreed to work together on this campaign. This shows not just the sense of unity among the profession but also our determination to make sure this government starts to engage properly with us in order to address these crucial issues.

“Regardless of which union you are in, it is absolutely essential we all work together to ensure everyone eligible casts their vote. This really is a time to stand together and stand up for the profession.

“Whether you are in the same union or in different unions, these staff meetings will provide a perfect opportunity to come together and show your solidarity for one another in this ongoing campaign.”