27th June 2023
Dear Parent/Carer,
Re. Industrial Action
As you will be aware, the National Education Union (NEU) has announced it is to take further industrial action due to a national dispute between the unions and government over teachers’ pay and funding decisions for school. The next planned strike days are next Wednesday, 5th July and Friday, 7th July.
Due to the number of NEU members and health and safety implications, unfortunately, after careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision that the College cannot operate a standard day. I have outlined the plans below.
During these two days, the College will only be open to Year 12, Year 10 and a small group of identified Year 7-9 students. Parents/carers of the Year 7-9 identified group will receive a personal communication in the next few days, and those students will attend College in full uniform from 8.30am to 3.05pm.
Year 12 students will follow their normal timetable. If their teacher is not in College, they will complete independent study in the Sixth Form Study Area.
Year 10 students will arrive at 8.30am, in full uniform, and register with the year team in the canteen. On Wednesday, 5th July, they will complete their English Literature GCSE rehearsal exam during periods 1-4 and then leave the site at approximately 12:30pm to complete exam study at home. On Friday, 7th July, they will complete their Chemistry and Physics GCSE rehearsal exams periods 1-4 and leave site at approximately 1:15pm. If Year 10 students require school transport at the end of the school day, we will supervise them during lunchtime and period 5. Please inform the Year 10 team if your child requires this provision by Monday 3rd July to enable us to make appropriate arrangements.
All Year 7 – 9 students not attending on these two days will be provided with appropriate independent study to complete at home. Miss Barry, Vice Principal, will be providing more details about this and adding information to our website early next week.
As most students entitled to Free School Meals won’t be in school on the two strike days, Mrs Callaghan, Business Manager, has once again arranged for £2.50 to be credited to their ParentPay meal account which won’t expire until spent. We understand that times are tough for families and it is important that no student goes hungry, therefore, if you prefer, a packed lunch can be collected or delivered on the day. Please let Mrs Callaghan know by noon on Monday 3rd July via email to enquiries@cowleysthelens.org.uk and she will arrange for this to happen.
I am sorry that you will have to make alternative arrangements for your child, and for the disruption to their education. I have prioritised the exam year groups to ensure this strike does not interrupt their exam preparation. I very much hope this situation can be swiftly resolved so we can continue to deliver high quality education and opportunities for our students. I am in regular contact with LA and Union representatives and will keep you informed of any progress or change.
College will be open as normal for all students on Thursday, 6th July and it is a requirement that all students attend.
If you have any questions, please contact the college on the above email.
Yours sincerely,
Mr R Cormack
Principal
