Tough Industrial Decisions

We had a meeting today. It was a tough decision. A (insert collective noun) of teachers gathered around student desks, shins pressing into chins, on chairs built for younger bodies.

Most teachers I know hate striking. It means time away from the kids or missing oportunities to move them along in their reading or maths. In our case we have planned a curriculum day - one of the few key organisational days when we butt heads and define what learning looks like in our school. Surrendering such a significant day made it even more difficult.

After much anguish the group decided to hold industrial action on 15 November and join the Community Day of Protest that will express our outrage at proposed changes to workplace relations.

The key questions that focussed my decision were;
1. What will I think about my action or non-action looking back in ten years time?
2. Will the legislation act to protect and encourage the most vulnerble in our community?
3. Does the proposed legislation contribute to shaping a more caring, equitable and just workplace?

For those who feel they are unable to take industrial action I urge you to consider contributing the days pay to the fighting fund of your union.