School strikes called off after deal struck with unions

Industrial action at 14 schools in the Midlands and North West has been called off after a deal was reached with unions.

Support workers at the schools run by the St Ralph Sherwin Catholic Multi Academy Trust in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Stockport started to take strike action in April last year.

An agreement has been reached which will reverse some planned cuts, as well as protecting pay and year-round contracts for many staff, said Unison.

The trust, which runs 20 primary schools and five secondary schools, confirmed a deal had been reached but did not give any further details.

Unison previously said restructuring plans, which affected posts including teaching assistants, one-to-one special needs support workers and chaplaincy staff, had left members "demoralised" and would reduce pupil support.

The settlement also includes a commitment to improve working arrangements, give staff more say in key decisions and provide greater transparency, it said.

Trust chief executive Kevin Gritton stepped down last month after a group of MPs wrote a letter asking it to address "significant concerns" raised by parents and staff over planned job losses.

A petition calling for him to go was signed by more than 1,300 people.

Unison East Midlands schools officer Josie Lloyd said: "Taking strike action is never easy, but the trust support staff were determined to ensure schools don't just work for those at the top.

"This large group of low-paid women made it clear they wouldn't accept cuts that harm those on the front line. This improved deal is testament to the power of collective action.

"The agreement provides job protection, restores key roles and ensures staff voices cannot be sidelined again."

A spokesman for the trust said: "We can confirm that an agreement has been reached with Unison. There's nothing further to add currently."

Listen to BBC Radio Derby on Sounds and follow BBC Derby on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.