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Primary school staff strike over 'culture of fear'

Bea SwallowBristol
News imageGoogle A screenshot from Google street view showing the exterior of May Park Primary School. It is a grey-white rectangular building with green and blue stripes and large windows. There is a small green space with trees growing in front of the building. Outside the metal fencing, there are blue bollards shaped to look like pencils spaced out evenly on the pavement.Google
Union members report being harassed and bullied by certain elements of the school leadership

Staff at a primary school are striking over what they claim is a "toxic management culture of fear and bullying" which leaves them "genuinely scared" to speak up.

National Education Union (NEU) members at May Park Primary School in Eastville, Bristol, will be taking six days of strike action commencing on Tuesday 3 March.

The union alleges school management employs "racist tropes", and claims black members of staff are subject to "undue scrutiny" in comparison to other colleagues.

A spokesperson for May Park Primary School said they were "aware of the concerns raised" and that matters were being taken "extremely seriously", with a risk assessment under way in relation to the strike.

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The NEU claims behaviour from certain parties in the school leadership has led to a "complete lack of trust" among members in their ability to resolve issues.

It adds it has raised these issues repeatedly in negotiations with the employer, but their response "was not sufficient" enough.

Ted Powell, NEU regional officer, said: "Members feel genuinely scared that they will be targeted if they speak out or raise any concerns they have with the management style.

"It is completely reasonable that our members want to be treated with respect at work and not be subject to intimidation and bullying.

"Whilst we remain committed to finding a negotiated solution with school, we are disappointed that they have so far failed to address staff concerns despite being given more than enough time to do so."

News imageThe exterior entrance of the school. Outside there is a blue sign, some bushes, and blue bollards shaped to look like pencils.
Staff members will form a picket line outside the school entrance for six days

Emma Tovey, principal of May Park Primary School, added: "Our staff, who are highly valued and respected, work incredibly hard every day for our pupils and school community. Our focus remains on constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and finding a way forward that supports both our staff and children."

A risk assessment has been undertaken in regards to the situation, with parents to be told by the end of 26 February if the school will be closed during strike action.

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