21st February 2023
Dear Parent/Carer
Re. Industrial Action
As you will be aware, the National Education Union (NEU) has announced it is to take industrial action due to a national dispute between the unions and government over teachers’ pay and funding decisions for school. The second strike day will be next Tuesday, 28th February.
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. However, the plans are different to the first strike day arrangements.
Next Tuesday, 28th February, the College will only be open to Sixth Form, Y11 students and a small group of identified Y7-10 students. Parents/carers of this Y7-10 identified group will receive a personal communication in the next few days.
Sixth Form 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 11 students will complete their English and Maths GCSE rehearsal exams during P1-4 and then leave the site at approximately 1pm to complete exam study at home. Year 11 students will arrive at 8.30am, in full uniform, and register with the year team in the canteen. If Y11 students require school transport at the end of the school day, we will supervise them during lunchtime and period 5. Please inform the Y11 team if your child requires this facility by Friday, 24th February for us to make appropriate arrangements.
All Y7 – 10 students not attending next Tuesday will be provided with appropriate independent study to complete throughout the day. 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 Tuesday, 28th February, 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 Friday, 24th February 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 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 re-open to all students on Wednesday 1st March, and it is a requirement that all students attend.
If you have any questions, please contact the college on the above email, however, more details will follow over the next few days.
Yours sincerely,
Mr R Cormack
Principal
