Teachers go on strike for second time in month amid union's dispute with government

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.

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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.

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