TEACHERS are “walking out after three months” over working conditions at a school, a union representative has claimed.
Limebrook Primary School and Nursery opened in Tempest Road, Maldon, in September 2024.
However, the National Education Union says teachers have faced issues with long working hours, excessive scrutiny and additional pressures.
Rob Howlett, NEU secretary for central Essex, said: “We are trying to drastically improve the quality of the environment that the teachers are working in.
“Teachers' working conditions are pupils' learning conditions.
“Ultimately, happy staff are going to lead to a stable, nurturing environment for the pupils. At the moment, that environment is not there.”
The union and school have both published open letters about the concerns.
Weeks after the school opened, Mr Howlett says a reception teacher asked the union for help leaving.
The union has reportedly tried to engage with school leaders but says efforts have not resulted in meaningful discussions.
Since then, the union claims it is currently supporting two teachers who started last month and are already preparing to leave.
Mr Howlett also alleged newly qualified teachers were not receiving adequate support.
“Some of them are left never wanting to set foot in a classroom again," he added.
However, one parent says her two children are "very happy" attending the school.
"Both my children have attended the school since it opened, and they're thriving," she said.
"The executive headteacher, Mr Wright, is helping the school offer much more than many others, with discos, movie nights, a winter wonderland and a fireworks night coming up.
"We need to give him a chance."
Despite her family’s positive experience, the mum recognises the problems facing some teachers.
She added: "We want all the staff to be happy and stay because we’re so thankful for all they do for our children.
"I’d never want anyone to struggle at work.
"As parents, we want to help make the school a healthy and happy workplace."
The Lion Academy Trust, which runs the school, responded to the concerns.
A spokesperson said: “The trust acknowledges the issues that are causing parents and members of our school community concern.
“We are taking active and direct measures to address these in a timely and appropriate manner.
“We will not be making any further statements at this time.”
Share