The pay scales and pay progression for teaching staff at Colebourne Primary School have become a pressing concern that demands immediate attention.

Teaching staff who are members of the National Education Union have held strikes throughout January 2026, which is causing disruption to children and parents in the community. To date, children from 11 classes have been affected by the strikes, missing four teaching days this month with more strikes planned throughout January. 

We urge the headteacher at Colebourne to reconsider his stance on the pay progression which denies teaching staff upper pay scale progression. According to the National Education Union, Colebourne school is the only Council school to have denied eligible teachers upper pay scale progression. 

We urge the senior leadership team to re-evaluate their decision to deny teachers upper pay scale progression.

According to a survey conducted by the National Education Union, fair pay and pay progression are among the top factors affecting teacher retention. It's imperative that Colebourne Primary School remains competitive by ensuring the teaching staff feel valued and supported. This directly impacts not only the teachers’ livelihood and motivation but also the quality of education provided to our children.