Teachers strike today but college says it is open as usual
Teachers are set to strike today over potential job losses – but Sussex Downs College says it will be a case of business as usual for students.
Staff at college who are members of the National Union of Teachers have confirmed they will walk out after it emerged more than a dozen of their colleagues are set to lose their jobs.
They will be joined by members of the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT) and the majority of those striking work at Park College in Eastbourne, meaning the industrial action could cause of disruption to classes.
Phil Clarke, secretary of Lewes and Eastbourne NUT explained, “The numbers now affected are very small but this is still unacceptable to our members, some being left with only a few hours’ employment a week.
“We understand the disruption strikes cause and they are always a last resort for teachers. We remain positive that college management will act to avoid the action, but firmly believe that defending jobs in education in the long term is the correct thing to do for both our members and the whole community the college serves.”
A spokesman for the college though was quick to reassure parents worried about the impact on their children’s education.
They said, “We appreciate that this a difficult time for staff in all parts of the public sector. Sussex Downs College isn’t immune from the effects of austerity measures.
“In the event that NUT members decide to take action, we can confirm that Park College will remain open as usual and students’ examinations will not be disrupted.
“We are most disappointed that any teacher would consider taking strike action at this critical time of year for our students.”
What do you think of the decision to strike? Should teachers leave the classrooms? Let us know by leaving a comment below.
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Weather for Eastbourne
Saturday 25 May 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 5 C to 15 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: North
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 7 C to 16 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: West
