'Bullying' allegations prompt teachers to walk out of Plymouth school on strike

West Country
Schools
Strike
Plymouth
Tuesday 2 July 2019 at 2:08pm

Teachers went on strike at the ACE school in Plymouth today. Credit: ITV News

Teachers at a Plymouth school for vulnerable children went on strike today in a dispute with senior management.

Union bosses claim staff are being 'bullied' and not treated well enough - and have warned more walkouts could follow.

But the school, which is run by a group of trustees and outside of local authority control, says it is committed to working constructively to find a way forward.

The school was closed as teachers joined a picket line. Credit: ITV News

ACE is a free school, part of an academy trust for youngsters who have been excluded from mainstream education.

Parents also joined the picket line to show their support. Mum Katy says the school turned her son's life around.

Mum Katy says the teachers changed her son's life. Credit: ITV News

Along with claims of bullying, teachers also say they are not being treated with dignity or consulted over changes to working patterns.

Last month the CEO of the academy trust was suspended pending an investigation, but the reasons have not yet been revealed.

Teachers claim they are not being treated with dignity. Credit: ITV News

The academy trust says it is working with the unions to find a solution. Credit: ITV News

We are committed to providing the very best possible teaching and learning environment for both our staff and pupils, and we recognise the importance of this in enabling every individual to have the opportunity to succeed and fulfil their potential. The board and the management of the trust are working very hard and with urgency to ensure that this is resolved as soon as possible. We have been in constructive and substantive consultation and discussion for several months, and are continuing to work closely and constructively alongside the unions and across our schools to ensure a prompt resolution. We are endeavouring to work towards a joint commitment with the unions that will deliver the best outcomes for staff and for the children and young people are privileged to serve.