The recent wave of strikes within the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP) has prompted the academy trust’s chief executive, Richard Gill, to take a leave of absence. The decision comes as over 800 staff members, represented by the National Education Union (NEU), continue their industrial action across 20 schools, demanding clarity and resolution regarding potential job cuts.
Continued Industrial Action
Staff members have been striking for nine days in January, with plans to extend the action for an additional nine days in February. The ongoing disputes have highlighted significant concerns regarding job security and the management of the academy trust. In light of Gill’s temporary departure, Lee Miller has been appointed to take over as the interim chief executive and accounting officer while also serving as the interim chief financial officer, a role he started earlier this year.
Focus on Resolution
In a statement, the ATLP expressed its commitment to resolving the current conflicts as swiftly as possible. The trust emphasised Miller’s extensive experience in supporting other academy trusts and his dedication to fostering productive discussions with trade unions. They acknowledged the pressing need to ensure that educational activities for students remain uninterrupted despite the ongoing strikes.
“Everyone is working as hard as possible to resolve these issues,” the trust stated, appealing for respectful engagement from all parties involved. They specifically condemned any instances of abuse directed towards staff, whether on social media or through other channels, urging the community to maintain a constructive dialogue.
Schools Affected by Strike Action
The strikes are impacting a wide array of schools within the ATLP, including:
– Anna Seward Primary, Lichfield
– Coton Green Primary, Tamworth
– Curdworth Primary, Sutton Coldfield
– Deykin Avenue Junior and Infant, Witton, Birmingham
– Hill West Primary, Sutton Coldfield
– Mere Green Primary, Four Oaks
– Osborne Primary, Erdington, Birmingham
– Paget Primary, Pype Hayes, Birmingham
– Scotch Orchard Primary, Lichfield
– Slade Primary, Erdington
– St Chad’s CE Primary, Lichfield
– St Michael’s C of E Primary, Lichfield
– William MacGregor Primary School, Tamworth
– Two Gates Primary School, Tamworth
– The Coleshill School, Warwickshire
– The Royal Sutton School, Sutton Coldfield
– Nether Stowe School, Lichfield, Staffordshire
– Stockland Green School, Erdington, Birmingham
– The Arthur Terry School, Sutton Coldfield
– West Coventry Academy, Coventry
The Road Ahead
As the situation develops, the ATLP remains dedicated to managing the implications of the strikes on students and staff alike. The ongoing discussions with trade unions will be pivotal in shaping the future of the academy trust and addressing the concerns raised by its employees.
Why it Matters
The outcome of these strikes will not only impact the immediate future of the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership but could also set a precedent for other educational institutions facing similar challenges. With education funding and job security at stake, the resolution of this dispute is crucial for maintaining the stability and quality of education for thousands of students across the region. It underscores the importance of constructive dialogue between educational leaders and their staff to ensure a collaborative approach to problem-solving in the educational sector.
