Teachers to strike on May 4

Teachers are leaving the profession citing low pay and unsustainable workloads, NSW Teachers Federation president Angelo Gavrielatos said.

In response to inaction by the State Government to address the teacher shortage, a strike of members will take place on Wednesday, May 4.

Kyogle High School will be open for minimal supervision. The canteen will be open but students are encouraged to place recess and lunch orders when they arrive at school.

The front office at Kyogle High will operate as normal.

Evans River deputy principals Jenny Hart and Kellie Sieurin said the school had been notified that the federation had directed all members to stop work on Wednesday, May 4.

“Please be advised that many of the teaching staff will be involved and therefore minimal supervision will be in place for the day. Minimal supervision will be in place from 8:30am until 3:30pm. A roll call will take place in the morning to organise any students who attend school.”

At Kyogle Public School there will be minimal supervision as normal classes and programs will not be operating. Please make alternative arrangements for your children where possible, school staff advised.

Check with your school about what is happening on strike day.

The federation ran a poll of more than 10,000 members across the state which revealed that without urgent action teachers will continue to leave the profession.

The poll found:

73% believe their workload is unmanageable

70% are reconsidering their position due to workload

90% disagree that their pay reflects their expertise and responsibilities

89% say shortages are very significant

82% say shortages are leading to higher teacher workloads at their school

“The profession is now left with no alternative but to act in the interest of our students and our profession, and take industrial action,” Mr Gavrielatos said.

The federation also placed an immediate ban on all new government and education department policies and initiatives due for implementation on and from day one of term 2.

Rally venues for members’ protesting on Wednesday are at Tweed and Coffs Harbour.