Teacher Strikes Force Widespread School Closures Across Scotland
Schools throughout Scotland are set to close this month as teachers embark on industrial action in a dispute over excessive workloads. The Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) has launched strikes that will force educational institutions to shut their doors, causing significant disruption across multiple regions.
Regional Closure Details
Glasgow City Council has confirmed that all primary, secondary, and Additional Support for Learning (ASL) schools will be closed on Wednesday, March 18, and Tuesday, March 24. John McGhee, the interim executive director of education services in Glasgow, stated that the council has been "left with no alternative" due to uncertainty about how many teachers would participate in the walkout.
East Renfrewshire Council announced closures for all primary and secondary schools, along with nursery classes in schools and Isobel Mair Schools, on Tuesday, March 17, and Monday, March 23.
Moray Council confirmed that all its schools will be closed on Thursday, March 19, with a possible additional closure on Wednesday, March 25.
Additional Impacted Regions
Schools in Dundee are facing strikes on Wednesday, March 18, and Tuesday, March 24, with action short of striking beginning on Monday, March 16. The local authority will contact parents about closures once it completes assessing the industrial action's impact.
Perth and Kinross Council indicated it is "highly likely" that most schools will not be able to fully open on Thursday, March 19, and Wednesday, March 25. Parents will be contacted directly if their children's schools are affected.
In Fife, strike action is scheduled for Tuesday, March 17, and Monday, March 23. The local authority warned that walkouts will "cause significant disruption" and that "many school buildings may be unable to open safely." Parents and carers will be contacted by Thursday, March 12.
Background of the Industrial Action
The EIS formally submitted a ten-day notice of potential industrial action across the country last week. Union members voted in favour of industrial action to address what they describe as "excessive" workloads facing teachers. Despite progress in negotiations, the EIS reported that a firm agreement had not been reached with the Scottish Government and Cosla, the group representing councils.
Councillor Ricky Bell, Cosla's resources spokesperson, commented: "Industrial action is in nobody's interests, and we urge unions to work with Cosla and the Scottish Government to find a solution all parties can agree rather than threaten to disrupt education at this crucial time of year."
Bell added: "We recognise that supporting teachers is essential. However, this needs to be facilitated in a way that ensures a positive impact on outcomes for children and young people. Cosla remains committed to constructive engagement with the Scottish Government and teaching unions through the Scottish Negotiating Committee for Teachers on the implementation of the ministerial commitment to reduce class contact time."
He concluded by noting concerns about the financial and practical implications of this policy, emphasising that reduced class contact time cannot be delivered without full funding and a clear understanding of its impact on children and young people.
