Members of the National Association of Head Teachers, along with other unions representing teachers, have voted in favour of strike action next week.
Wandsworth’s teachers are being urged not to go on strike next week as it is likely to cause school closures across the borough.
Members of the National Association of Head Teachers, along with other unions representing teachers, have voted in favour of strike action on November 30.
Councillor Kathy Tracey, Wandsworth Council’s cabinet member for education and children’s services, believes nobody wants to see this kind of disruption to pupils’ learning.
“I have no doubt working parents will be saddened by the prospect of school closures, particularly because they may be forced to make potentially costly childcare arrangements should this happen,” she said.
“I would urge headteachers and their staff to do everything possible to avoid going through with this industrial action.”
Executive Headteacher of Saint Cecilia’s, Wandsworth Church of England School, Jeffrey Risbridger, sees strike action as a last resort.
“On the rare occasions they take industrial action, school staff are always mindful of the impact this can have on pupils’ learning, and on families where the necessary childcare is not readily available,” he said.
“However, the government’s proposals to change public sector pensions have ignited a great deal of outrage from those working in the public sector, of whom school teaching and support staff form only one part.”
Mr Risbridger commented that he is not yet certain how many of his school staff will be taking action next week, but believes it will be the vast majority.
He said: “If this is indeed the case, the school will have to close for the day as I will not have the resources available to supervise the pupils in a way which adequately ensures their health and safety.”
Schools are expected to issue news alerts to parents through their websites to let them know what impact any industrial action will have.
There is also a text messaging facility which can be used to communicate instantly with parents should a school closure be announced at the last minute.
For questions about schools and education in Wandsworth, please contact the council on 020 8871 6000 or visit www.wandsworth.gov.uk/info/100005/education_and_learning
