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A student supporting strikers

 A student supporting strikers

Why we should show strikers compassion 

For years, the exploitation of public sector workers has been rising at an exponential rate. Having tolerated this maltreatment more than anyone should, many of these people have opted to take strike action, including our teachers…

The National Education Union announced its intention to strike on the 16th of January. Less than a month after, on the 1st of February, we witnessed approximately 100,000 teachers striking across the UK and 85% of schools close either fully or partially. 

That day, I witnessed the extent to which my teachers have been forced into their position by the pay cuts. 

Due to our Year 13 mocks, my peers and I had to cross the picket line. Teachers who have taught most of us for almost 7 years were waving their sky-blue flags, honking their horns and blasting their noisemakers outside the school gates. As I approached, I noticed that a few of my teachers had their children by their side, waving flags of their own. Despite having walked less than 100 metres to school, my nose had become numb and red from the cold. The strikers had been there far longer than me, yet one of them must’ve noticed my Rudolph nose; she asked if I was feeling okay before handing me a sticker and wishing me luck on my exam...

Naturally, numerous parents are experiencing frustration following the inconveniences caused by these strikes, particularly surrounding childcare. Despite being a student, I understand how this may result in perceived ‘unnecessary’ stress. Hence, having heard the same comments permeate discussions surrounding the union’s action – “They’re being greedy”/ “They’ve had a pay rise”/ “They’re so inconsiderate” – I’ve taken it upon myself to research why my teachers have made this decision. 

Unfortunately, I found that it was necessary. 

1/3 of teachers leave the field within 5 years of employment. 1/3 of these teachers are unable to cope with the intense pressure put upon them. 1/3 of these teachers are unable to manage the disproportionate pay to the workload. 1/3 of these teachers chose to leave their position permanently rather than fight for their right. Every teacher deserves fair pay.

Since 2010, the IFS estimates that our teachers will have faced a pay cut of 14%. Fortunately, our teachers were proposed a generous pay rise (averaging 5%) by the government for 2022. The inflation rate for the same year was 9.20%...

With the cost-of-living crisis and intense workload that involves hundreds of unpaid hours spent marking, planning, and preparing lessons, it’s no wonder that teachers are asking for a just, proportionate pay rise. 

Therefore, instead of mourning for the loss of one day’s worth of education, let us support the teachers in their choice. When they stand at the Picket line on the 1st of March, let us exercise compassion. 

These strike days are not opportunities for teachers to laze around at home with a cup of tea. These strike days are spent standing at the picket line, facing rain and winds of 21mph, asking to receive one of our fundamental human rights. 

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