School strikes to go ahead after pay talks end without agreement

Schools strikes will go ahead this week after pay talks with teachers broke up without agreement.

The largest teaching union, the EIS, described negotiations as "cordial and constructive" but said no new offer had been tabled.

Staff in primary schools will walk out on Tuesday followed by secondary school teachers on Wednesday.

Members of the EIS, NASUWT, SSTA and the AHDS trade unions are due to take part in the action.

Unions have rejected a 5% increase, arguing for 10%. The offer includes rises of up to 6.85% for the lowest-paid staff.

The Scottish Negotiating Committee for Teachers (SCNT) - which brings together unions, the government and councils - met to discuss the options.

Afterwards the EIS general secretary, Andrea Bradley, said: "It is disappointing, though not surprising, that no new offer was presented today, despite some positive progress in discussions.

"The union side remains willing to talk, at any time, with a view to reaching a resolution to this dispute.

"While it is now too late to halt this week's strike action in schools, we hope that fresh talks may take place later this week to advance discussions towards an improved offer.

"Only a significantly improved offer from the Scottish government and Cosla can bring an end to this dispute."

• Teachers' strikes: How many schools will close?

• The strikes taking place in January

Last week, the Scottish government said there was "potential scope for compromise" following a meeting with teaching unions.

Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said the talks on Friday were "constructive and helpful".

'No additional funding'

She added: "We are open to considering options to resolve this dispute through the SNCT.

"I recognise that any deal must be fair and affordable for all concerned, given the unprecedented pressures facing Scotland's budget."

Local government body Cosla said there was no additional funding available for an improved pay deal.

Staff in primary schools will walk out on Tuesday followed by secondary school teachers on Wednesday

Cosla's spokeswoman for resources, Katie Hagmann, said: "I look forward to maintaining constructive and proactive dialogue, which considers all options available, so that we limit any further disruption for pupils, parents and carers."

The industrial action follows the biggest Scottish teachers' strike in decades in November.

Teaching unions in England and Wales are also balloting members over pay.

Most state school teachers in England and Wales had a 5% rise this year, and many teachers in Northern Ireland have been offered 3.2% over two years.

Unions argue that with inflation at 10.7%, these increases amount to a real-terms pay cut.