News / Education
Strike at primary school suspended following ‘improved’ offer
Strikes at an Eastville primary school have been suspended following negotiations between staff and the school’s leadership.
National Education Union (NEU) members at May Park Primary School have decided to halt further strike action after the school agreed to an improved offer, including an enquiry into the school’s leadership.
Tom Bolton, Secretary of the Bristol National Education Union (NEU), said members felt the recent discussions with the Excalibur Academies Trust, of which the school is a member, had been conducted in “the right spirit” and gave staff hope that an acceptable resolution could be reached.
The industrial action, originally scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, followed earlier strikes over concerns about staff wellbeing and the leadership culture at the school.
A staff member involved in previous strikes described a tense atmosphere at the school, including a “culture of fear and bullying”.
Staff went on strike after raising concerns about what they describe as a “toxic” workplace culture involving bullying and intimidation
Tom Bolton, NEU South West regional officer, added that the strikes, which had “huge” support from parents and the local community, were suspended after a workplace meeting on Monday.
He said: “This new offer includes the employer agreeing to an enquiry into the leadership of the school.
“NEU representatives have been involved in numerous meetings with the employer over the last week that have been held in the right spirit of wanting to find a solution that is acceptable to members.”
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In a statement to Bristol24/7, May Park Primary confirmed its latest offer had been accepted and no further strike action is planned.
Emma Tovey, principal at May Park Primary School, said: “We welcome the outcome of these constructive discussions and are pleased that a resolution has been reached.
“We remain committed to working collaboratively with our staff and the wider school community to ensure stability and continued high standards of education for all pupils.”
All photos & video: Betty Woolerton
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