Dear Parents and Carers,

You will be aware from national media coverage and my earlier communications that the teacher members of the National Education Union (NEU) are due to strike on 15^th March and 16^th March. The strike is happening because of a national dispute between the unions and the government over teachers’ pay and not because of any issues at our school. 

I am now getting in touch to give you as much notice as possible about our arrangements for 15^th and 16^th March 2024.

Having carried out a full risk assessment that is based upon the numbers of staff that are likely to strike, there will be a partial closure of the school.

On Wednesday 15^th March

Years 8, 9 and 10 will be expected to remain at home.

All other year groups (years 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12 and 13) to attend school as normal. The Junior School residential will continue as planned.

On Thursday 16^th March

Years 7, 8 and 10 will be expected to remain at home.

All other year groups (years 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12 and 13) to attend school as normal. The Junior School residential will continue as planned.

I am sorry that you will have to make alternative arrangements for your child/children at short notice, and that they will experience disruption to their education. This decision has been taken by considering the number of teachers likely to be on strike and the impact upon their classes and supervision across school. I have tried to prioritise the youngest year groups and those preparing for summer exams. I have also considered the disruption to year groups over all the days and taken this into account. Consequently, over the four strike days, year 8, 9 and 10 have been asked to remain at home for three days and year 7 for one. 

For students that are attending school there is still likely to be some adaptations to their normal day. At times, this may include the supervision of students in the main hall. 

Further information will follow regarding remote provision for students who will be at home. 

We are working closely with union representatives to keep up to date with the situation, and I will inform you as soon as possible if arrangements change further.  

I understand that this situation will be frustrating, and apologise that I do not feel that we will have the numbers of staff available to have all our children on site. I am sure that all members of our school community will continue to treat each other with respect around these decisions. The Minster School remains committed to providing a safe and secure environment for our pupils and delivering high-quality teaching.

Kind regards,

Ben Chaloner - Head Teacher