Walkout By Movilla Teachers

Gates at a Newtownards high school remained closed and classrooms empty today - after 25 teachers took to the picket line in protest at the Principal's decision to dock pay.

Teachers at Movilla High School have had salaries withdrawn because they refused to teach a pupil, who allegedly assaulted a member of staff.

The school's board of governors voted not to remove the pupil, according to the South Easter Education and Library Board.

This morning 540 pupils were sent home, after Monday classes were cancelled.

Twenty-five NAS/UWT union members at the school asked 12 colleagues not to cross the picket line to cover their classes.

The union said because staff had stopped teaching the child their entire pay would be halted.

This move was taken as teachers were refusing to follow the principal's instruction.

Teachers at the school subsequently voted to go on indefinite strike.

Weekend talks at the Labour Relation Agency failed to avert the action.

But the Education Board said it would not join negotiations because the union would only talk if teachers' pay was reinstated and other arrangements were made to teach the child.

NASUWT NI Organiser Seamus Searson said: "All along we have made it clear that our members want to continue teaching their classes, but this particular pupil needs a new start with specialised support.

"Clearly, we cannot tolerate a situation where our members are not paid for the work they are doing, and where, in effect, all the pupils are being punished for the behaviour of one," he said.

Mr Searson blasted the board's handling of the situation.

"The failure of the South Eastern Education and Library Board to provide proper support for this pupil is having a devastating impact on teachers and students alike."

(PR/JM)