Suffolk teachers strike over pupils' 'bad behaviour'
Staff at Westbourne Academy walk out on 13th and 14th May after more than a year of unresolved concerns about disruptive behaviour affecting learning and staff well-being
Last updated 12th May 2025
Teachers at Westbourne Academy in Suffolk are on strike on Tuesday 13th and Wednesday 14th May due to ongoing problems with pupil behaviour that they say the school has failed to address.
Members of the National Education Union (NEU) say they have raised concerns for over a year, but poor behaviour continues to affect classroom learning and staff mental health.
A picket line is taking place outside the school from 7:30 am to 9:30 am on both days of the strike.
Paul McLaughlin, Regional Secretary for the NEU, said: “Our union members only take strike action reluctantly and where all other steps have been tried to resolve issues. They are now frustrated and exasperated that despite these issues being raised repeatedly, the school has failed to act to ensure members of staff can feel safe at work.”
“We call on management to put in place adequate arrangements to ensure the well-being of students and staff. Our members are ready to reach an agreed outcome, however at present the steps being taken are insufficient and unacceptable.”
A spokesperson for Academy Transformation Trust said:
“We care deeply about the wellbeing of our staff and pupils, and we fully recognise the challenges that exist at Westbourne Academy. That’s why improving pupil behaviour is our top priority.
Following Ofsted’s visit in June 2024, which rated Westbourne as a Good school overall, we have acted with pace and purpose to respond to their feedback regarding the behaviour of a minority of pupils. This includes providing additional staffing and strengthening leadership. We are currently planning out a new approach to manage pupil conduct and how pupils are organised within the school, which will start after half term. This is all aimed at creating a calmer, more focused environment for learning for all.
We are working closely and constructively with union representatives to understand concerns and to support all colleagues as we continue this important work. We are committed to achieving lasting improvement while minimising any disruption to pupils — especially during this crucial exam period.”