Teachers protest against the academy trust's financial choices, sparking a strike over funding concerns.
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Teachers at All Saints and St George’s Walk Out in Protest
Teachers at All Saints Catholic School and St George’s Catholic Primary School in York have taken strike action over funding policies introduced by the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT). The walkout is part of a broader protest concerning how funds are allocated across the trust’s 38 schools.
Union Criticises Centralised Funding Model
The National Education Union (NEU) has expressed concern that NPCAT’s centralised model diverts essential resources away from individual schools. The union claims that services such as safeguarding, which were previously provided free of charge by the local authority, are now being funded directly from each school’s budget since joining the trust—St George’s in 2019 and All Saints in 2023.
The NEU argues that this shift places additional financial strain on schools, reducing their ability to meet local needs effectively.
NPCAT Defends Policy, Promises Engagement
In response to the strike, NPCAT said it is engaging constructively with union representatives and has already made internal adjustments to address some of the concerns raised. The trust reiterated its commitment to supporting all 38 schools under its care across York, North Yorkshire, and Teesside, noting that safeguarding and similar services are essential and must be funded sustainably.
Dispute Highlights Broader Concerns Over Academisation
The dispute has reignited wider debates about the academisation of schools and the financial models employed by multi-academy trusts (MATs). Critics argue that centralising funds can lead to inefficiencies and under-resourced local schools, while supporters claim it improves consistency and ensures equitable service delivery across a trust.
No Resolution Yet as Strikes Continue
While dialogue between the trust and the union is ongoing, no immediate resolution has been reached. Further industrial action has not been ruled out, and parents at both schools have been advised to prepare for continued disruptions if the dispute is not resolved.
FAQs
Q1: Why are teachers at the two York schools striking?
A: They are protesting the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust’s decision to centrally fund services like safeguarding, which they argue reduces the schools’ direct resources.
Q2: Which schools are involved in the strike?
A: All Saints Catholic School and St George’s Catholic Primary School in York.
Q3: What is the role of NPCAT?
A: NPCAT oversees 38 Catholic schools across York, North Yorkshire, and Teesside, managing shared services and funding.
Q4: What services are at the centre of the funding dispute?
A: Services such as safeguarding and other support functions that were previously provided for free by the local authority.
Q5: Has NPCAT responded to the strike action?
A: Yes, the trust stated it is working with union representatives and has already implemented some changes internally to address concerns.