Tewkesbury Academy has paused its planned strike actions following the implementation of a new behaviour policy designed to tackle disruptive and abusive student conduct. Staff members at the secondary school have raised concerns about working in what they describe as “unsafe environments,” citing a lack of control over student behaviour and issues including racism and misogyny, particularly targeted at teachers.
These serious concerns prompted previous strike actions that led to temporary school closures. However, a letter from headteacher Kathleen McGillycuddy confirms that strikes scheduled for this week have been suspended to allow time for the new policy to take effect.
Representatives from the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT) acknowledge “positive progress” in discussions with school leadership. While strikes this week have been called off, 12 additional strike days remain planned for March and April. Union members have overwhelmingly supported the temporary pause but remain committed to ensuring substantive changes are implemented.
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Michaela Wilde, NEU CLF Branch Secretary, highlighted ongoing constructive negotiations with the Cabot Learning Federation, which oversees Tewkesbury Academy. Union members are set to meet later this week to review developments and decide on any further necessary strike action.
The school’s new behaviour policy, detailed in a letter to parents, outlines several key measures: 60-minute after-school detentions, staff training in de-escalation techniques, and suspensions for pupils who use abusive language towards staff.
Headteacher McGillycuddy expressed gratitude to parents for their patience and support, expressing hope that with these measures, the strike actions will come to a full and lasting end.
Previously, staff had reported disturbing incidents involving groups of male students making offensive ‘Nazi jokes’ and numerous instances of misogyny directed at female teachers, highlighting the urgent need for improved behaviour management.