ONE of the teacher’s who was striking today was Harlow resident, Jake Shepherd.

Here are his reflections on the day.

“Today was a difficult day, which I wish hadn’t come to pass. Today’s strike was a last resort, which became necessary after this government walked away from the negotiation table.

“I would have preferred to have taught my students today, but it was right to #SaveOurSchool… Despite teaching for less than five years, I’ve learnt a lot about the education landscape in England!

Don’t buy the spin that today’s #schoolstrikes are just about teacher pay (which is valid in of itself) – at the root of this dispute sits a battle for every child to receive quality education in a safe school! Shaping the lives of our wonderful students has only ever reaffirmed why I chose to get into teaching!

Yet, it’s become clear how much of that support and shaping relies on goodwill and unpaid labour. The school funding crisis is hollowing out education! It’s time to #PayUp!

I know how grateful we are as teachers for the support of the public in the NEU dispute to fight for better pay and conditions for teachers, and ultimately safeguard the future of our schools which continue to serve children and young people!

Please #SupportTheStrikes! I sincerely hope that before the next strike date, the government will return to the negotiation table and resolve this dispute so that our profession can continue to serve our communities and children with the dignity and respect that teachers (and support staff) deserve!

In the meantime, please support striking teachers and understand that this was always an action of last resort. However, the critical need for action couldn’t be greater if we’re to Save Our Schools!