Staff at St Francis C of E Primary School Take Second Day of Strike Action

Second Day of Strike Action at Falmouth School

Staff at St Francis Church of England Primary School in Falmouth walked out for a second day today, 8th July, in a show of strength and unity over concerns around classroom observation practices. The school is part of the Kernow Learning Multi Academy Trust.

Despite the grey skies, spirits were high outside the school gates as teachers, support staff, former colleagues, parents and pupils gathered from as early as 7 a.m. Support came from across the community, with colleagues from other schools joining the picket, passing delivery drivers honking in support, and even a parent handing out biscuits to keep everyone going.

The Core Issue: Drop-In Observations

The strike centres around one of four key concerns raised by staff: a push for Kernow Learning to adopt the National Education Union’s (NEU) Observation & Drop-In Model. While the Trust has made proposals in this area, union members say they fall short of meaningful change.

Staff remain concerned that:

• Unlimited drop-ins would still be allowed, creating a constant sense of scrutiny.

• No enforceable limits mean feedback sessions could be daily or weekly without restraint.

• Teachers wouldn’t be able to control how and when observations happen, despite knowing what’s best for their pupils.

• Support staff, such as those running interventions or teaching early reading, would continue to face unlimited observation.

NEU members shared leaflets during the picket explaining the harmful impact this could have, not just on staff wellbeing but on pupil learning too. “It’s inspiring to see such solidarity,” said one NEU member. “Our message is simple: reasonable, evidence-based observation practices aren’t just good for education staff—they’re good for children.”

Real Impacts on the School Community

The strike has highlighted what staff say are ongoing issues already affecting life at the school, including:

• High levels of anxiety and burnout.

• Increasing stress-related absences.

• A breakdown of trust between staff and leadership.

• Negative effects on pupils due to staff wellbeing being stretched.

One parent, showing their support, said: “My two children attend St Francis, and I want their teachers to be motivated by trust and coaching, not intimidated by endless inspections.”

A former teacher at the school also turned out in support: “Seeing my old colleagues united for such sensible, evidence-backed changes is truly uplifting.”

More Strike Action Planned

The picket line will return tomorrow as strike action continues. NEU members say they remain hopeful for a positive resolution and open conversation with the Trust. Today’s turnout has made one thing clear: there is strong local support for fairer observation policies, and the wider Falmouth community is standing with the school’s staff.