Teachers strike threat over literacy and numeracy tests
TEACHERS have threatened to strike over literacy and numeracy tests set to be introduced under plans announced by the Welsh Government.
Education Minister Leighton Andrews has today unveiled his National Literacy and Numeracy Framework (LNF), with the aim of transforming standards in Wales.
It is part of a package which includes a £7 million National Support Programme for teachers to implement the framework. In addition, online bilingual guidance and training materials are being developed to help schools in the run-up to it becoming statutory in September, 2013. However, tests will be introduced in May.
Mr Andrews said: "I am determined that teachers and schools will be fully supported in implementing the LNF and improving literacy and numeracy standards."
Business Cards From Only £10.95 Delivered www.myprint-247.co.uk
View detailsOur heavyweight cards have FREE UV silk coating, FREE next day delivery & VAT included. Choose from 1000's of pre-designed templates or upload your own artwork. Orders dispatched within 24hrs.
Terms: Visit our site for more products: Business Cards, Compliment Slips, Letterheads, Leaflets, Postcards, Posters & much more. All items are free next day delivery. www.myprint-247.co.uk
Contact: 01858 468192
Valid until: Friday, May 31 2013
But the framework has attracted criticism and fears of potential teaching strikes by members of the NUT union.
Owen Hathaway, policy manager for the NUT, said members had previously balloted to be able to strike as part of a dispute with the Welsh Government over workload, so industrial action was always possible.
However, Mr Hathaway added that they were "nowhere near strike action".
He said: "In regards to testing it will increase the workload of teachers and because of that teachers won't be able to teach for the period they are doing these tests.
"It is unlikely there will be a strike, it's far down the line, but it is possible. We are in discussions with the Welsh Government over workloads."
In response, Welsh Liberal Democrat Shadow Minister for Education, Aled Roberts, said ministers should meet with union reps as soon as possible. Plaid Cymru's Simon Thomas, party education spokesman, added: "The Welsh Government must now demonstrate how it will work with unions and teachers to implement the new framework and develop a consensus on what needs to be done."
6 Comments
by johnmajor2
Tuesday, January 29 2013, 4:20AM
“In order that children dont loose anymore Education time through these tests
I think they should be taken during of their long holiday periods
They do get paid for these nice long holidays”
by Julesbreadbox
Monday, January 28 2013, 8:38PM
“Literacy and numeracy tests.....
For teachers....what a good idea!!!!!
"....because of that teachers won't be able to teach for the period they are doing these tests".....
Call it professional development.
Haha.”
by Penllergaer
Monday, January 28 2013, 6:54PM
“If Teachers in England can do it, ours must be substandard or just lazy.”
by cresswell1
Monday, January 28 2013, 6:53PM
“anything to get a day off,lazy gits”
by siarad2
Monday, January 28 2013, 6:39PM
“Don't teachers have free periods anymore”
by GorsseinonJoe
Monday, January 28 2013, 6:10PM
“Absolutely disgraceful, if they don't want to teach find another job.”