Pupil Struggles to Keep Track of School Days Missed Amid Tewkesbury Academy Strikes

A Tewkesbury Academy pupil says he has lost count of the number of school days missed this year due to ongoing teacher strikes. Since February, members of the National Education Union (NEU) and the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT) have taken regular strike action, citing concerns over staff safety and the inconsistent handling of disruptive student behaviour by senior leadership.

This industrial action paused recently after the school introduced a new behaviour policy aiming to address union demands. The changes are designed to improve consistency in discipline and tackle reported issues such as racist and misogynistic abuse, including students making offensive remarks that had previously gone unchallenged.

Headteacher Kathleen McGillycuddy confirmed the policy revisions in a letter to parents and noted that further adjustments are under consideration. The unions are ballotting members to decide whether to continue strike action.

However, the policy’s immediate rollout has already impacted students. One Year 10 pupil recounted being reprimanded simply for returning to class shortly after the bell, despite having permission to leave for the restroom. The student described the policy as being enforced rigidly, with even minor tardiness resulting in penalties, which undermines the policy’s intended purpose.

Reflecting broader concerns, the pupil also shared that he has witnessed teachers being put at risk and even assaulted by some students. While supporting the teachers’ reasons for striking, he lamented the considerable loss of classroom time, admitting that he has spent more days out of school than in over recent months.

His mother expressed frustration over last-minute strike notifications, highlighting the challenges faced by families in arranging alternative care, especially for younger children without nearby support.

Though the new behaviour policy has temporarily halted strikes, tensions remain. The school is awaiting the result of the upcoming industrial action ballot. Ms McGillycuddy emphasized the school’s commitment to applying the revised rules with kindness, clarity, and consistency, aiming to restore a stable learning environment.