Strike continues at Flint High over bullying claims
Teachers at Flint High School are continuing strike action this week in a dispute over workplace bullying and pupil behaviour.
Members of the National Education Union (NEU) Cymru will walk out on Wednesday 17 and Thursday 18 September. The union says the school has failed to deal with bullying behaviour from the headteacher and has not tackled high levels of behavioural issues.
The union said no progress has been made since industrial action last week.
Nicola Fitzpatrick, Wales Secretary for the NEU Cymru, said: “Our members in Flint High School feel they have no choice but to continue with their industrial action. It was inspiring to be on the picket with our members last week. They showed bravery and determination to stand up for dignity in the workplace and a safe environment for staff and for learners.
“The action on Wednesday and Thursday should demonstrate to the employer that we are serious about enforcing our rights to a safe workplace for all. The governors of Flint High School and Flintshire County Council need to engage with us and take the necessary steps to end this dispute.”
Liz McLean, NEU Executive Member for Wales, said: “The NEU members at Flint High have already inspired other members in other workplaces across North Wales. They are an example of the principles of trade unionism, they have stood together in solidarity and said clearly and publicly that they will not be bullied and prevented from doing their jobs properly any longer.
“As Barack Obama said, ‘Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones that we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek’. The wider union movement is behind them in securing the change that they are seeking.”
Flintshire County Council previously said grievances raised against the headteacher had been investigated and not upheld.
Claire Homard, Chief Officer for Education and Youth at Flintshire Council, said: “I can confirm that due processes have been followed by the school Governors and that grievances raised in relation to allegations of bullying were not upheld. The school has also undertaken a thorough review of its pastoral systems and behaviour management policies, and new initiatives have been put in place. These are already showing a positive impact at the start of the new academic year.
“The headteacher, school leadership team and Flintshire County Council are committed to working constructively with the NEU to bring this action to an end as soon as possible to minimise disruption.”
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email news (@) deeside.com
NEW: Add Deeside.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Latest News
