Members of NASUWT - The Teachers’ Union at LIPA School in Liverpool will begin strike action this week after leadership failed to deal with a number of concerns related to health and safety, adverse management practices, and dangerous pupil behaviour.

While NASUWT representatives have met with leaders at the school, no progress has been made. LIPA Multi Academy Trust does not appear to recognise trade unions.

Matt Wrack, Acting General Secretary for NASUWT - The Teachers’ Union, said:

“Academy trusts have a duty of care to their teachers and that means engaging with trade unions to ensure that everyone is working in a safe, supportive environment. Ignoring a trade union is not an option.

“LIPA School teachers have urgent concerns over critical areas such as safeguarding, health and safety, and pupil behaviour, but leaders just aren’t listening. This must be rectified immediately for the sake of staff and pupils, and we urge leaders to get back around the table with us to find a speedy, safe resolution.”

Bryan McConnell, National Executive Member for District 6, said:

“We have been left with no option than to move to strike action as a result of the failure of the employer to address adverse management practices which are affecting the welfare of staff and their ability to do their job safely. Teachers feel as if their physical and mental wellbeing doesn’t matter to this employer, and that cannot go on.”