Primary school teachers strike over staffing cuts

Children, parents and teachers outside Western Road Community Primary School in Lewes

Teachers at an East Sussex school have walked out for the day over proposed staffing cuts.

Staff at Western Road Community Primary School in Lewes are striking over planned layoffs of teachers and teaching assistants.

Phil Clarke, regional secretary of the National Education Union, which organised the strike, warned cutting frontline staff would have a "significant negative impact" on pupils' education.

East Sussex County Council (ESCC) said the staffing changes were necessary for the school to meet its "legal requirements and set a balanced budget".

School budget under pressure

A spokesperson for Western Road school said: "The finalising of the budget, consultation and discussions are ongoing and it is very much hoped that a resolution can be found to avoid industrial action."

Olivia, whose child is in Year 1 at the school, said: "I was gutted, the staff at the school are amazing and the most incredible people I have ever met.

Olivia, whose child goes to the school, called the cuts "unacceptable"

"It's not fair on students and it is also not fair on teachers whose workload will increase exponentially."

Mr Clarke urged ESCC to provide support for the school and "show they understand it is unacceptable for children to suffer the consequences of inadequate school funding".

The school faces a budgetary shortfall in the years to come

Staff were told in January teacher numbers would be reduced from 8.7 to seven, while teaching assistant positions would be cut from seven to three.

An ESCC spokesperson said it was continuing discussions with the school and union to avoid the strike action and disruption to the children's education.

"Our priority is to ensure that pupils at Western Road have the best possible opportunities," they added.

• Council plans to use reserves to balance budget

A letter to parents from the school's chair of governors warned the school's income was set to fall "substantially" next year.

It predicted a budget deficit of approximately £180,000 by 2027/2028 at current spending levels.

Further strikes are planned for 18, 20, 25, 26 and 27 March.

The school spokesperson said: "We have been in regular discussions with staff and the union over the staffing restructure proposals, which are necessary for the school to set a balanced budget.

"We are confident that whatever decisions are taken we can maintain the highest standard of education and support at the school within a limited budget."