Several Croydon schools have closed for a day after staff announced industrial action over what unions have described as a “toxic bullying culture".
Members of the GMB union and National Education Union (NEU) at St Joseph’s Federation will take strike action today (July 15) in a dispute centred around allegations of management bullying.
The federation includes a nursery, infant school and junior school, all of which will close because of the industrial action.
Ashley Roach-McFarlane, GMB regional organiser, said members had been “on the verge of strike action twice already” during the dispute, but had previously suspended plans after it appeared there was movement towards a resolution.
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Have you been affected or decided to take part in the strike? Share your story with Ezekiel.Bertrand@newsquest.co.uk
He said: “This time they are adamant that they need to take action to prove their resolve and strength of feeling.
“Our members are confident of what will be in the report, as they have told the truth in their contributions, so are rightfully asking where it is.
“Publication of an honest report that properly reflects the situation at St Joseph’s would be a start, but this dispute will remain live until concrete changes are made to put a stop to this toxic, bullying culture.”
The strike follows an investigation into the bullying allegations, which included contributions from a number of union members.
However, the unions said that weeks later, the report had still not been published.
Support staff at St Joseph’s Federation are represented by the GMB union, while teaching staff are represented by the NEU.
The unions have called for changes to be made following the investigation, while the dispute remains ongoing.
Sutton Guardian has contacted St Joseph's Federation for comment.
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