Winchester - why are they striking?

[Thewickerwomen]

Hello. I saw in The Times that Winchester might strike. Does anyone know the reasons why? (… and can one school decide to strike on their own?)

Exiting the TPS was a significant factor in me leaving my last job- a nice boarding school. I wasn't the only one.

Yes, as others have pointed out, pay and conditions in even the 'top' boarding/independent schools are not generally better than the state sector. I would also argue that standards are not always as good, either. Private schools are isolated, and often in competition with each other, so there just isn't the sharing of resources you get in state schools.

Lots of teachers exist in private schools who wouldn't survive a lesson with bottom set Year 9 on a Tuesday morning, never mind a Friday afternoon. I actually do think that's an important test, and having to keep difficult students focussed, learning and interested definitely makes you a better teacher. I've seen a lot of teachers in rather expensive schools who wouldn't make it through the door in my current MAT.

(And yes to the PP who mentioned Eton's value added. There is no excuse for every student who goes there not getting top grades in everything. Can you imagine with that level of selection and support?)

@Mythicalmol where else did you share link/where else is it being discussed?

Thank you so much for sharing article here. So interesting…

Elite UK boarding schools becoming ‘educational Ritz Hotels’, mirrors HK, Singapore, China where the elite ‘local’ schools have high status but real learning happens in enrichment centres with super tutors for ££ in shopping centres. Also ££ personal tutors. Hols are earmarked for getting ahead with next years curriculum etc.

A culture increasingly replicated in UK public (top independent) schools.

WA etc effectively becoming finishing schools for internationals to confer ‘right’ accent & ‘polish’ & connections.

Can a significant international minority enable these schools to keep going?

Will we see the ‘middle class’ power base increasingly shift to comps with ‘invisible’ tutors on side?

@ElegantPuma would you mind sharing how you achieved Trade Union Recognition? Was your school receptive from the outset?