Headteachers set to discuss backdated pay offer

Tuesday 17 October 2023

A backdated consolidated 7.9% pay offer to end the current dispute with headteachers will be put to the members of the National Association of Headteachers union this evening.

Depending on the outcome, the offer could potentially see the NAHT union resolve its dispute with the Government – ending strike action.

Carl Howarth, President of the NAHT said that the "most significant change" was the "recognition from the SEB about the time commitment, demands and change in the role of school leaders over recent years – and the need for our significant input into the Education Reform Programme".

"We are pleased to have secured a commitment from the SEB to address these legacy issues within the next 12 months," he added.

Pictured: Protests last month saw members of headteachers' union the NAHT confront Assistant Chief Minister Andy Jehan after last-minute talks failed to avoid strike action.

Mr Howarth continued: “The focus of all school leaders is on providing high quality education. The prolonged dispute, in which school leaders took strike action for the first time, is something we did not do lightly.

“However, we also recognised the need for continued and constructive dialogue, and we are pleased that through this we have reached a credible proposal which we can positively put to members."

Constable Andy Jehan, Vice Chair of the States Employment Board, said: “I am grateful for the continued engagement and constructive talks we have had with the NAHT and school leaders over the past few weeks. This has helped us find a way forward that works for all, and ensures critical issues are not pushed down the road.

“The SEB wish to support the Minister and school leaders in achieving the vital reform to education services, with the focus being on education standards and for the inclusion of children and young people in education.”

Pictured: Constable Andy Jehan, Vice Chair of the States Employment Board.

Deputy Inna Gardiner, Minster for Education and Children, added: “The role of school leaders has changed significantly as we are going through major changes with our ambitious education reform programme and vision for Community schools.

"Headteachers and their deputies are vital to the co- production of the design and implementation of changes, and they provide significant expertise in this area.

“This will be for the benefit of the children and young people of the island.”

The NEU (National Education Union) announced earlier this week that its members would strike on Tuesday and Wednesday “after talks with the Government broke down”.

The NASUWT is not striking, but is continuing 'work-to-rule' industrial action, which means action short of strike action. This includes not covering classes for absent colleagues or striking members, attending less meeting hours and scaling back workloads.

The Government's list of school openings and closures for the strike dates can be found online.

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Pictured top: Members of the NEU gathered this morning for a 'Strikers Family Walk and Picnic' from La Frégate Café to Les Quennevais as they began two days of industrial action.