LIVE: Classrooms close and picket lines form as teachers go on strike - latest updates

Teachers across Greater Manchester are walking out today amid an ongoing dispute between an education union and government. More than 12,000 members of the National Education Union (NEU) in Greater Manchester will be among those striking today (February 28).

It's the second day of industrial action this month for NEU members, following a strike on February 1. Like last time, a number of schools have closed entirely for the day, while more are welcoming pupils from a small number of year groups or vulnerable children.

The NEU is calling for a fully-funded, above inflation pay rise, which does not impact existing school budgets. It says the sector has been underfunded over the past decade and the situation has led to a recruitment and retention 'crisis' in teaching.

READ MORE: Constance Marten and Mark Gordon arrested but baby is missing as police launch urgent search - latest updates

Picket lines are forming outside a number of schools in Greater Manchester this morning as teachers walk out. Today's strike affects NEU members across the North.

Education secretary Gillian Keegan says a 'serious offer' has been made for the NEU to get back to the table and pause the strikes. She says it is 'simply unforgivable' for children to miss another day of school due to industrial action.

This is a live event. Follow the latest updates below.

Get the latest headlines here

READ NEXT:

Reporter Tom Molloy is at Elton High School in Bury this morning.

I’m visiting a couple of schools in the borough of Bury this morning as teachers go on strike across Greater Manchester. My first stop is Elton High School @MENnewsdesk pic.twitter.com/w3DzcG3hHW

The NEU is calling for an above inflation pay rise that is fully funded by