As a retired teacher, I understand the real reluctance of those who made the decision to strike on 26th March, when I joined other members of Wandsworth NUT members who were striking.
In speeches at the rally in central London it was made clear that the strike could have been avoided if Mr Gove had been prepared to attend meetings with the unions, rather than just send Department for Education officials.
Although a strike can only be called in a dispute over pay and conditions, many teachers are worried about the damage which Government policies are having on the education of pupils.
Extracts from some of the speeches at the rally include:
- "2/5 young teachers leave within the first 5 years"
- "Tests at 5 are labelling young children as failures"
- "It's time to listen and to stop putting politics before pupils"
Government policy is "turning nurseries into booster classes" and the effect is to "label, punish and restrict the life chances of children as young as 4"
Finally, "the idea that anyone wants to go on strike is ludicrous". It should be remembered that every teacher who was on strike yesterday sacrificed a day's pay to do so.
Wandsworth Council should use its influence with the Government to encourage Michael Gove to talk to teachers.
Jane Eades
Treasurer, Wandsworth NUT
- Send your letters to: letters@wandsworthguardian.co.uk
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