Letter To Parents In Highland Regarding Teacher Strikes on 28 Feb And 1 March

24th February 2023

Dear Parent/Carer
Industrial Action -Teaching Unions

You may be aware from coverage in the media, that some teaching unions including the largest, the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS),have indicated their intention to take strike action on Tuesday 28th February and Wednesday 1st March 2023 across all Highland Council schools.

This action is part of a national dispute regarding pay. The safe supervision of children and young people is of the utmost importance and given that we anticipate significantly reduced numbers of both management and teaching staff in schools and early learning and childcare settings, a decision has been made to close all schools to pupils.

I apologise for the inconvenience this will cause, however it is hoped that by communicating this decision early that it will allow parents/carers to plan ahead.

While the council has been formally notified by teacher unions of their intention to strike, there are on-going discussions at a national level and this may result in strike action being averted, if this is the case then you will be notified of this through the council website www.highland.gov.ukour social media platforms, as well as your child's usual school communication channels.

In summary, on Tuesday 28th February and Wednesday 1st March:
•All primary schools including local authority ELC and out of school care settings will be closed to pupils.
•All secondary schools will be closed to pupils.
•All special schools and off-site provision will be closed to pupils.
•BACS payments will be made for those children and young people entitled to a free school meal based on low income (not universal entitlement).
•School Crossing Patrols will not operate on this day.•School Transport will not operate on this day.

Yours sincerely

Nicky Grant Executive
Chief Officer Education and Learning