The National Education Union (NEU) in England ballots for strike action in response to what it sees as insufficient government pay rise proposals for teachers in the 2024-25 academic year, amidst broader concerns about recruitment, retention, and school funding.
The National Education Union (NEU) in England has initiated a ballot for potential strike action among its members, in response to what it deems an inadequate pay rise proposal from the UK government for the 2024-25 academic year. This action has been prompted by the Education Secretary Gillian Keegan’s request to the School Teachers’ Review Body, advocating for a “sustainable” pay recommendation that reflects school budget constraints. NEU’s head, Daniel Kebede, has criticised the government’s stance, indicating that industrial action may be necessary to secure fair pay and proper funding for teachers.
In parallel developments, a recent survey across 70 local authorities in England has highlighted an increase in the number of pupils securing their top-choice secondary school for the next academic year, though challenges persist in high-demand areas. Additionally, there have been calls to address the recruitment and retention crisis within the education sector, emphasized by leaders like Teach First CEO, Russell Hobby, who underscored the need for investment in schools, particularly in low-income communities.
The UK Government, citing economic conditions, has expressed its intent to return teacher pay awards to a “more sustainable level” after two years of significant increases. This position has faced criticism from education sector professionals, including Paul Whiteman, general secretary of NAHT, who argued that it overlooks the real-terms pay cuts and the ongoing recruitment and retention challenges.
The NEU’s potential strike action is aimed at securing government-backed pay increases and additional funding for staffing. The Department for Education has expressed disappointment over this move, highlighting potential disruptions to education. However, the final decision on teacher pay for the 2024/25 school year rests with the School Teachers’ Review Body, following the government’s submission. The outcomes from the NEU’s ballot for strike action will reveal the level of support among educators for measures to address pay and funding concerns within the sector.
