South Bank Multi-Academy Trust has confirmed 43 staff working at it six schools will be sacked unless they sign new contracts which would see them only being paid during term time.Julie Forgan, a Unison rep at Knavesmire Primary School, where she is a teaching assistant in the nursery, said her pay would be cut by nearly 14 per cent.
She liked the plans to “P&O Ferries in a primary school” and said staff were prepared to strike to protect their terms and conditions.MAT chiefs were invited to the meeting, which was chaired by Micklegate Labour councillor Jonny Crawshaw, but did not attend. An empty chair was left out for them. Marking, preparing for lessons and work around safeguarding and child protection all come under the remit of such TAs and many work during the holidays regardless.Unison rep Julie Toyne, who will also be affected, said: “My bills don’t stop in the school holidays – no one gives me free things in the school holidays because I’m not there.
The meeting also heard that the proposals would save £100,000 – around 0.5 per cent of the MAT’s annual turnover.Mr Kearney added: “Because it’s a private business, Mark Hassack is able to walk in on £150,000 a year and tell the people who are directly responsible for looking after your children that they have to take a pay cut – people who could be on £11 an hour.”Central MP Rachael Maskell sent a statement of support to the meeting.
Disgraceful, what’s more important bullying CEO and bloated SLT with expenses or dedicated staff in front of children. Perhaps the trustees and CEO could answer and prove what impact on learning they have. Typical kick the dog syndrome.
Despicable treatment.