Teachers pause strikes in 'violent pupils' dispute

Teachers at a Greater Manchester primary school who went on strike amid claims some violent and abusive pupils were not being managed safely have suspended next week's plans for a two-day walk-out.

The NASUWT union said Monday and Tuesday's planned industrial action at Moorside Primary School in Swinton had "been withdrawn" due to "progress" being made and further talks aimed at resolving the dispute.

Staff previously said the school leadership was not dealing with "numerous incidents and increasing levels of violent behaviour". Six further one-day strikes remain provisionally planned for the autumn term.

A Salford City Council spokesman said: "We welcome the decision to suspend strike action."

He said the council had been "working closely with colleagues from the NASUWT union, the school leadership team, and governors" to seek a resolution.

The spokesman also said: "The council takes its statutory duties and the care and safety of the children seriously and will continue to work with all parties to minimise disruption to children and families."

The union said pausing the strike action would allow time for the school to "demonstrate that much-needed measures were being put in place".

Jac Casson, of the NASUWT in Greater Manchester, said: "We have been overwhelmed by the huge level of support our members have received from parents during this dispute and their understanding that teachers' working environment is the learning environment of their children.

"It's clear that the school community shares a deep commitment to the wellbeing of all children, and that includes supporting the staff who care for and educate pupils every day, which they have continued to do in very difficult circumstances.

"We hope that the progress made is maintained, and that the assurances offered by the employer are implemented and taken seriously.

"While we hope it will not be necessary, if progress does not continue, and further meaningful changes are not delivered, NASUWT members will resume action in the autumn term."

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