The National Education Union announced a “resounding improvement” in workload and conditions for teachers from Jamaica and other countries at a prominent academy chain, following an agreement that averts potential strikes. This decision is part of a broader arrangement aimed at easing the process for international teachers to acquire equivalent qualifications in England.

Harris Federation of schools confirmed that it will improve the conditions for qualified teachers from Jamaica and those trained abroad, facilitating their ability to gain similar qualifications in England.

Daniel Kebede, the NEU’s general secretary, commended the teachers and support staff at the 18 Harris academies for standing up for fair pay, conditions, and the treatment of international teacher colleagues.

However, the advocacy group disagreement about pay was contentious. Harris claimed it already raised teacher pay to national levels in September, before the union took action. The spokesperson for Harris accused the NEU of attempting to create divisions within the academies and criticized the union for falsely invoking the Windrush scandal.

Despite these disagreements, the agreement addresses excessive and unhealthy workload levels, which were a major concern for the NEU. One anonymously speaking overseas-trained teacher expressed gratitude for the changes, emphasizing how it makes them feel more valued and respected in England’s education system.

Following negotiations at the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service, NEU members decided to suspend their strike ballot, thereby avoiding disruptions to education caused by industrial action.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/education/2025/mar/01/english-academy-chain-conditions-jamaican-teachers-neu