Teachers at two primary schools in Greater Manchester have taken unprecedented strike action following a series of violent incidents, including a pupil discharging an imitation firearm in the playground while under parental supervision.
Strike Action Triggered by Escalating Violence
Staff at Ravensfield Primary School and Lily Lane Primary School in Moston walked out on Tuesday 6th and Wednesday 7th of January. The industrial action was called by the NASUWT teachers' union in response to what they describe as a dangerous deterioration in working conditions and pupil behaviour.
In a letter to parents seen by The Daily Mail, it was revealed that on the second day of the strike, a child caused significant panic by discharging an imitation firearm in the playground. The incident occurred while the child was reportedly under the supervision of their mother. The school confirmed no one was injured or directly threatened but stated it is working closely with Greater Manchester Police.
A Pattern of Dangerous Behaviour
This alarming event is the latest in a catalogue of serious concerns raised by staff. Teachers report a persistent pattern of violence that has created an unsafe environment. Specific incidents cited include:
- Pupils physically assaulting staff, including being hit, kicked, and spat at.
- Children bringing knives into the school premises.
- A climate of fear where some pupils are now too scared to attend class.
One anonymous parent confirmed the situation had become so severe that some families are withdrawing their children from Ravensfield Primary School.
Union Declares an 'Emergency'
Matt Wrack, General Secretary of the NASUWT, stated the strike represents an "unprecedented event" for the union, with two primary schools from the same academy trust taking action over identical concerns. He called it a "declaration of emergency" where the health and safety of everyone is at risk.
Rachel Knight and Jac Casson, National Executive Members for Greater Manchester, added that working conditions are "devastating the teachers," who are suffering from high levels of stress, anxiety, and physical injuries. They emphasised that staff simply want a safe environment for themselves and their pupils.
Both schools are part of the Changing Lives in Collaboration Trust (CLiC). The trust's CEO, Jo Ashcroft, said pupil and staff safety was its "highest priority" and expressed disappointment that strike action was taken so soon after a ballot, claiming the union declined an offer of collective conciliation via ACAS.
Further strike days are planned for January 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, and 22. Both schools remained open during the initial action, with picket lines formed from 8.45am.
