National Education Union teachers at Ballard School in New Milton to strike for first time in row over pay

TEACHERS at an independent New Forest school are set to strike for the first time in its history later this week in a row over pay.

Members of the National Education Union (NEU) working at Ballard School in New Milton agreed the five-day walkout following a ballot of its members, which saw 84% in favour of action.

The first day of strikes will take place on Thursday, then again on 27th and 28th June and 8th and 9th July.

The union says pay has fallen behind inflation “significantly” over the past 10 years and that rates at the school for most staff are below those in the state sector.

In 2020 the school left the Teacher’s Pension Scheme, instead opting for what the union says is “a less favourable scheme” which reduces the pay package for its members.

Although a 4% pay rise was handed to staff in March, the union says it “does little to address the historic real term pay cuts” that staff have faced.

NEU rep at Ballard School, James Blake, said: “Ballard staff are a dedicated team, providing an amazing education for the pupils in our care.

“Prices have gone up significantly in all areas including food, fuel, rents and mortgage payments, and our pay has not kept up.

“The lack of communication or meaningful discussion with governors has left us feeling undervalued and with no choice but to take action in support of our claim”.

NEU regional officer Craig Arden added: “Our members do not want to strike, but feel they have no choice.

“We have met with the chair of governors to try to resolve this dispute but the school has refused to entertain any possibility of increasing the pay award.

“We are aware that the school has budgeted to run a surplus this year and it is possible to increase pay further without going into a deficit. We are also aware that the school finances are in a very healthy state, with £8m in reserves.”

The school, which teaches nursery pupils from the age of two through to students in year 11, charges between £3,290 per term for reception pupils and up to £6,055 for those in year nine and above.

Previous pupils include Matt Aldridge who is part of the BG Olympic rowing team, and James Miller and Jay Harris from indie band, The Manatees.

The A&T has approached Ballard School for comment.