Why are teachers striking at the Duke of Lancaster school?

Teachers and support staff are striking because they claim assaults by students are not being taken seriously by the school's management, leading to a normalized environment of violence.

What actions has the Eastern Education Group taken regarding safeguarding?

The Eastern Education Group states that since taking over the school in 2024, they have strengthened safeguarding, increased staffing, and provided specialist training, including appointing a new head of safeguarding.

What is the current status of the Duke of Lancaster school during the strike?

Despite the strike, the Eastern Education Group has stated that the school will be able to open as usual, with measures in place to ensure the educational continuity for the children.

Home / Education / Autism School Staff Strike Over Unaddressed Violence

Autism School Staff Strike Over Unaddressed Violence

24 Feb

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Summary

Staff strike over alleged inaction on student assaults.
Teachers report violence has become normalized at the school.
School management states safeguarding has been overhauled.

Autism School Staff Strike Over Unaddressed Violence

Staff at the Duke of Lancaster school for autistic children have initiated a strike, citing concerns that assaults by students are not being adequately addressed by the Eastern Education Group (EEG). Members of the National Education Union (NEU) report that violence has become normalized within the institution, compromising the health and safety of both students and employees.

English teacher James Coulson highlighted that numerous staff injuries, some severe, are preventable. He stated that a lack of appropriate measures and follow-up has led to these incidents being accepted as routine. Staff also expressed a need for better care and mental well-being support following assaults.