There will be a national strike of NUT members at 6th form colleges tomorrow. The strike us supported by the NUS. The government is attempting to take legal action against the strike which was supported by an 86% Yes vote on a turnout of 44%. The government is also trying to bribe colleges into becoming academies by offering exemption from VAT if they convert.
This is what the NUT said about the action:
About the 6th form college funding campaign
Cuts to 16-19 funding have been much greater than cuts to school funding. Sixth form colleges are under threat. Teachers in sixth form colleges are facing threats to pay, working conditions and employment. Students in this extremely successful sector are facing threats to their education. You can read more about the issues in this briefing document. Use it and the other materials on this page to raise awareness of the issues with your colleagues, friends and the public and build support for the campaign. It is vital that we put pressure on MPs and Ministers to tackle the post-16 funding crisis. MPs across the parties are expressing support for sixth form colleges.
What the NUT is seeking:
- Restoration of 16-19 funding to the levels which existed before the Coalition Government started its cuts programme
- Exemption from VAT for colleges – without them having to apply for academy status
- Removal of the threat of closure or merger – and recognition of sixth form colleges’ achievements.
- See more HERE