Dear parents,

The NEU will be taking strike action on:

• Thursday 2^nd March
• Wednesday 15^th March
• Thursday 16^th

The strike is happening because of a national dispute between the unions and the government and not because of any issues at our school.

I am writing to inform you that William Patten will be closed on Thursday 2^nd March.  We are asking you not to send your child into school on this day.

We remain committed to providing a safe and secure environment for our pupils, and feel that we would be unable to provide this with the staff we have available.

I know this strike could impact you, but this is a decision the teachers have not taken lightly. I hope you understand that they are doing this to protect your child’s future and this is not just about pay, teachers are striking against the national education policy and resourcing in schools.

There are reports in the press that the strike may be called off if the union and the Government were to have talks. We are working closely with our staff union representative to keep up to date with the situation, and I will inform you as soon as possible if arrangements change.

Due to school being closed on this day, we will be celebrating World Book Day on Friday 3^rd March.

If you have any questions, please do contact me via email.

Thank you for your support and understanding.

Best wishes

Karen