Important Message from Chief Education Officer: Industrial Action

Dear Parent / Carer,

You may be aware from recent media coverage that some schools across Wales may be affected on key dates over the coming weeks due to industrial action involving Education Trade Unions.

Members of the National Education Union (NEU) are expected to strike on the following dates:

• Wednesday 1st February

• Tuesday 14th February

• Wednesday 15th March

• Thursday 16th March

It is not clear at the moment which schools within the Caerphilly county borough will be closed on these dates. Head Teachers need to undertake detailed risk assessment to understand the impact that any industrial action will have on the ability to operate the school safely with reduced numbers of staff.

We fully appreciate that you will be keen to know as early as possible about any closures and all schools will endeavour to provide an update as soon as possible over the coming days.

As you can appreciate, schools can only operate if there are appropriate levels of staff available to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all pupils. Head Teachers are currently trying to establish the number of staff who may be available on these dates and decisions will be made based on these assessments.

Please keep an eye out for updates sent via your usual school communication channels.

Thank you for your ongoing patience and understanding in this matter.

Keri Cole
Chief Education Officer
Caerphilly County Borough Council