Teachers across Dorset have walked out as part of an ongoing dispute with the Government over pay and working conditions.

On Monday afternoon last-ditch talks broke down between union leaders and Education Secretary Gillian Keegan.

As a result, teachers who are members of the National Education Union (NEU) walked out on what is planned to be the first of several days of strike action over the coming months. 

Seven schools in Dorset closed completely as part of industrial action, whilst a further 37 remained partially open for a limited number of students.

Union members and teachers formed picket lines at nine schools around the county including Wey Valley School in Weymouth and St Osmund's School in Dorchester.

Mark Chutter NEU Dorset President speaking at a picket line at Wey Valley School, said: "We are striking today because teachers have had enough.

"In the NEU teachers work so hard for our students. We work long hours. The workload is significant and pay has not gone up. In terms of inflation, pay has lagged behind for years and enough is enough."

Saira Sawtell, Headteacher of St Osmunds School, said: “The pay rise which has been given, which is inadequate, is also unfunded.

"The pressure that has been put on school budgets is real and worrying.

"Here at St Osmund's School, that is causing us to make decisions in school which are hurtful. As headteacher here I am alarmed about children’s future.”

On January 30 The UK Government passed a bill through the House of Commons which will require minimum service levels to be met at schools, hospitals and other institutions nationwide.

The bill has begun the process of being read in the House of Lords.

Should the bill become law, it could mean fines or legal action taken against workers taking industrial action.

Mrs Sawtell said: "I feel on behalf of my staff here, it won’t stop them striking. I think there is the strength of feeling and commitment to education that will stand above a day’s pay or threat of legal action. The dedication to the cause is immense and lifelong. That’s why we chose this vocation and we won’t be easily silenced.”

Folk Singer Billy Bragg joined teachers at St Osmund's School

Mr Bragg said: "When I'm playing at a gig, I'm trying to evoke the spirit of a picket line at a gig, if I don't come and play at a picket line I can't do that. This is really crucial to what I do."

Gillian Keegan, Education Secretary said in a statement: "I am disappointed the NEU is taking action despite our continued engagement. I’ve written to teacher unions calling on them to ask their members to inform schools if they intend to go on strike."

Further strike action has been planned in the South West on March 2, 15 and 16 2023.