St Francis Primary Staff Strike for Fourth Day Amid Ongoing Dispute

NEU members vote for ten more strike days in September as pressure mounts

The fourth consecutive day of strike action at St Francis Church of England Primary School in Falmouth took place yesterday, Monday 14th July, with continued strong support from across the community.

Teachers and support staff, all members of the National Education Union (NEU), were once again joined on the picket line by parents, carers and local residents—highlighting growing frustration and broad backing for the industrial action.

Breakdown in Communication at the Heart of Dispute

Leaflets handed out to families during the strike emphasised that a lack of clear, two-way communication between staff and leadership is a central issue in the ongoing dispute.

Despite the NEU submitting a draft proposal to Kernow Learning Multi-Academy Trust on 10th July, outlining a possible path to resolution, no substantive response has been received so far.

Community Frustration Mounts

As tensions rise, a group of parents confronted Deputy CEO Matt Middlemore and CEO Clare Crowle yesterday morning. According to the NEU, parents expressed disbelief that, weeks after the dispute began, there has still been little progress on key concerns raised by staff.

More Strike Dates Confirmed for Autumn Term

NEU members have now voted unanimously to take at least ten further days of strike action in September. The union says it remains open to talks at any time in the hopes of reaching a fair agreement that works for pupils, staff and the wider Falmouth community.

With the summer break just days away, many are calling for urgent engagement from the MAT and school leadership to avoid disruption at the start of the new academic year.