Hammersmith & Fulham council’s cabinet member for children’s services has called on teachers and staff in the borough’s schools to do everything they can to keep their building open during this week's
strike.
The council is advising schools that they should consider making up the time by replacing an inset day with a full day’s teaching, so that no children lose out. The National Union of Teachers (NUT) and the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL) are striking on June 30.
Cllr Helen Binmore said that her top priority is the education of children in the borough and that local pupils should not suffer.
"We do not support this strike, one day lost for a child's education is a day too many and the strike will also cause problems for hard working parents. We have suggested to the schools that, as the strike is a foreseen closure, they should consider offering their pupils an additional day's education where possible.
“We will do everything possible to minimise disruption to residents and limit the damage caused by the unions who are striking.
“However, we hope that some schools will stay open with help from school support staff, governors and parent volunteers who have up-to-date CRB checks. The welfare of our children is the most important thing and schools have carried out health and safety risk assessments based on the number of staff likely to be at work before deciding whether to close or remain open.”
It is expected that at least 33 of the borough’s 54 schools will be closed to pupils unless creative solutions are found. However, seven schools, including most of the borough’s special schools, will be open, and ten are partially opening. The council is also offering headteachers the opportunity use qualified staff from the local authority so parents can go to work and that children do not miss out. A handful of schools are yet to confirm their plans for Thursday.
All schools are contacting parents to tell them of their plans but the council will also be publishing details of which schools are affected as soon as details become available at www.lbhf.gov.uk/schoolstrikes. This is so that parents can make alternative childcare arrangements if necessary. Parents are also being strongly advised to check their school’s website on Wednesday evening and also, if possible, on Thursday morning.
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