Teachers and other school staff across the North returned to school buildings last week. For many of them it is a time of uncertainty and trepidation.
Since school buildings closed for most pupils in March, teachers have continued to provide teaching & learning online or via school packs. They’ve provided support to pupils and families by phone or email, have worked with key workers and vulnerable children in school and many have been involved in the production and distribution of PPE or care packages.
People Before Profit have been contacted by many tecahers, bus drivers and school support staff who feel the current rush to fully open schools is premature and ill-conceived. As with the recent exams debacle, government ministers have shown scant regard for the impact of their decisions on teachers and pupils. Workers fear options which could provide a safer, blended teaching and learning experience, have not been fully explored or utilised. Alternative proposals have been trampled upon. The disrespect from government for essential workers has been incredible.
PBP member and teacher Carol Gallagher said:
“Teachers fully understand the importance of education. Teachers fully understand the importance of routine, of socialisation, of human interaction and of the need for the wider economy and social structures to get back to a ‘normality’. Many teachers are parents themselves and understand the pressures of children being at home during lockdown. Many work on a supply basis, depending on classroom practice for a day’s pay. But concerns are rife regarding a safe teaching and learning environment for both pupils and staff.
Our working conditions are our students learning conditions. And, if we’re to take anything from the grades fiasco, people power action by teachers, support staff, students and parents will be necessary to enforce policies that prioritise health and safety.”
People Before Profit invites you to attend the online public meeting, ‘Is it safe to return to the classroom?’ with speakers Susan Parlour – Teacher & NEU, Carol Gallagher – Teacher,Ellie-jo Taylor – Youth Parliment Candidate and Nuala Crilly – Chair. Parent and PBP activist.
Thursday 29th August at 7:30pm via the Derry People Before Profit Facebook page.
