Published Date: Sep 22nd, 2023
UPDATE: Tuesday 26 September AM
The following schools are open on Tuesday 26 - Thursday 28 September:
- Beanstalk Family Nurture Centre
- Duloch Primary School
- Calaiswood School
- Dairsie Primary School
- Elie Primary School
- Kingsbarns Primary School
- Masterton Primary School
Single status trade unions have notified Fife Council of strike action involving non-teaching staff in schools on Tuesday 26, Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 September.
Given the expected level of disruption, all schools will close to pupils on these three days.
Services impacted:
- High schools
- Primary schools
- Special schools
- Nurseries
- Early learning and family nurture centres
- Additional support needs units
- Childcare services
- Pupil support service
All schools, educational and childcare facilities will open as normal on Friday 29 September.
Parents and carers of children who receive Free School Meals based on benefit entitlement will get a payment off £7.20 per child for the 3 days schools are closed. There is no need to apply for this payment, it will be made into your bank account on Wednesday 27th September.
Shelagh McLean, Head of Education & Children’s Services said: “This strike is part of wider action relating to a national dispute over pay for all council workers other than teachers, who are covered by a different pay deal.
“We appreciate how difficult it is for parents, carers and pupils when we have to close our schools, and I can only ask for their patience and understanding.
“We can’t know in advance how many of our pupil support assistants, early years officers, admin and clerical staff, janitors, catering and cleaning staff will join the planned strike action. However, we do know that most union members voted in favour of action, so we expect a high level of participation.
“We can’t open our buildings to children and young people, or provide support across all classes and nurseries, without these staff. So, even though some may come to work, we’re unlikely to be able to run any educational facility safely.
“Therefore, we’ve made the difficult decision to close all Fife schools over the three days. I know this may be challenging or inconvenient for many families.
“Pupil welfare remains our top priority and we’re particularly conscious of the ongoing cost of living crisis. We will make a payment to parents for children and young people registered for free school meals.
“Remote learning with teachers will be in place. Our children and young people also have access to a wide range of online learning resources and educational games.
“Of course, we’ll update parents immediately if the dispute is resolved and plans change.”
You'll also find any updates at www.fife.gov.uk/strike