NEU hold second strike at The Village School, Kingsbury as negotiations with Academy bosses continue

 

NEU staff at The Village School in Kingsbury were on strike for he second day today. Staff are fighting for reinstatement of their leave of absence policy which was removed by the Academy Trust without consultation. Staff say that the Tust broke its own rules by not negotiating with unions first. Ante-natal, carers' and medical/disability leave are particuarly affected.

 

The largely female and ethnically diverse workforce were on the picket line this morning in good cheer and with a tune or two.They were encouraged by many toots of  support from passing vehicles including buses and commercial vans.  Solidarity messages from parents and other schools were read out and enegetically applauded.

I understand that tough negotiations have made some positive progress but there are still several sticking points. A union meeting at the school gates received a report back on the negotiations, listened carefully and then overwhelmingly voted to go ahead with tomorrow's scheduled strike to win the final elements of their demands.

Pete Firmin gives a solidarity message from Brent Trades Council

 

More strikes will be held next week if staff demands are not met.