Teacher strikes continue in Manchester in a call for an above-inflation pay rise

• National Education Union (NEU) has organised a second set of teacher strikes in Manchester and across the UK today, protesting against the government’s handling of the education system
• Union argues that proposed changes to pension scheme would lead to reduced retirement benefits for teachers, particularly younger teachers
• They also claim that funding cuts have resulted in larger class sizes, a reduction in support staff, and a decrease in the quality of education
• Education Secretary Gillian Keegan expressed disappointment and criticised the strikes for causing disruption to children and families

Manchester teachers are out on strike today (Tuesday) in protest in protest at the government’s handling of the education system and changes to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme.

The National Education Union (NEU) says the proposed changes would result in teachers receiving less in retirement and would disproportionately affect younger teachers. The union is also protesting the government’s cuts to school funding which they claim have resulted in larger class sizes, a reduction in support staff, and a decrease in the quality of education.

In addition to the strikes, the NEU has also organised rallies and other forms of protest in Manchester and across the country. These actions are part of a more significant movement by education workers to demand better working conditions, fairer pay, and more resources for schools.

In response to the latest action, education secretary Gillian Keegan Keegan said: “It is hugely disappointing the NEU has thus far refused this serious offer and has not joined the Royal College of Nurses in calling off strikes. 

“Instead of sitting around a table discussing pay, the NEU will once again cause disruption for children and families.

“Children deserve to be in school, and further strike action is simply unforgivable, especially after everything children have been through because of the pandemic.”