Teacher strikes called off after behaviour talks

NASUWT members claimed a failure to deal with "serious behavioral issues" had left them feeling unsafe in the school

Further strikes by teachers concerned about pupil behaviour at a Lincolnshire school have been suspended, a union has announced.

Staff at Haven High Academy in Boston walked out on Monday claiming senior management had failed to deal with "serious behavioural issues".

Some told the BBC they had been spat at, kicked, and pushed by students.

On Friday, it was agreed to halt further planned strikes following talks between school leaders and the teaching union NASUWT.

A spokesperson for Haven High Academy described the move as "very positive news" and said the school is "committed to continuing the discussions in good faith to resolve any outstanding issues".

Concerns about behaviour at Haven High Academy were raised last year after reports of organised fights being filmed for social media

Anne Thompson, national executive member for NASUWT, said further discussions will take place next week to try and set out a long-term behaviour policy.

She said: "We never want to be on strike but it shows the strength of feeling of the members that they can't tolerate this behaviour any longer. We felt it needed some action.

"It's well-know that behaviour in school has deteriorated but it is particularly bad there (at Haven High Academy).

"We want to work with the school, striking is a last resort and we feel we can move forward from here."

Concern over behaviour at the school was raised in 2023 when it emerged students had planned and filmed fights for social media.

Haven High Academy said it has taken a number of steps to address the issues raised, including installing additional CCTV cameras, adjusting its mobile phone policy and ensuring a senior leadership presence in corridors.

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