NUT: Strike action against education cuts: Camden Wednesday 30th March.

Tuesday, 29 March 2011 12:00 AM

NUT members in Camden have voted overwhelmingly in support of strike action in opposition to cuts in jobs and services in education.

Across Camden 85% voted for a one day strike with 79% in favour of further action on a turnout of 40%. The NUT is now planning a one day strike on Wednesday March 30th. NUT members were balloted as part of the response to proposals that will cut £20m from Children's Services.

The NUT is concerned that these cuts will close two Children's Centres as well as cuts to provision for children with special educational needs and other training and support roles. Other cuts will see the dismantling of specialist curriculum support, training and professional development for teachers.

Christine Blower, General Secretary of the NUT said; "The facilities that Camden proposes to close alongside the cuts to provision for children with special educational needs are vitally important services which serve the community as a whole, and those most in need in particular. While industrial action is always a last resort, the NUT cannot stand by and watch vital education services axed".

Andrew Baisley, Secretary of Camden NUT said; "This is a very strong vote for strike action and shows the scale of opposition to education cuts. We have been campaigning for five months on this issue. Strike action is a last resort. We went to ACAS at the eleventh hour hoping to resolve the dispute, unfortunately management offered no concessions.

The strength of Camden's schools is built on collaboration and strong support.
Michael Gove would like you to believe that cuts to central services are painless and just involve bureaucrats. This could not be further from the truth. The services being cut support our most needy and vulnerable children. They ensure that teachers use the most up-to-date practice. They provide coordination between schools across the borough. On the day of the planned strike the NUT will be organising a march and rally, which it is hoped will be supported by parents and the wider community.

For further details contact Andrew Baisley, Camden NUT branch secretary 07957 316 094

EDITORS NOTE

March leaves Crowndale Centre, Eversholt Street, NW1 1BD at 11am 30th March

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