Primary schools across West Lothian were closed to pupils today as industrial action by teachers continues.
The strikes involve members of the EIS, NASUWT, Scottish Secondary Teachers’ Association (SSTA) and the Association of Headteachers and Deputes (AHDS) unions.
Secondary school teachers will follow suit tomorrow, leading to the closure of most high schools.
Last minute talks held yesterday between union leaders, COSLA and the Scottish Government failed to break the deadlock, with teachers holding out for a better pay offer.
The unions have rejected a five per cent pay increase and are holding out for 10 per cent. The latest offer included rises of up to 6.85 per cent for the lowest-paid staff.
There were several picket lines around West Lothian, including at Murrayfield Primary in Whitburn and Balbardie Primary in Bathgate.
EIS West Lothian took to Twitter to say: “This did not need to happen! If COSLA and the Scottish Government wanted to end this dispute they could have done so yesterday!
“We need an improved offer put to members to avoid further strikes.”
Andrea Bradley, general secretary of the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS), added: “The union side remains willing to talk, at any time, with a view to reaching a resolution to this dispute.
“While it is now too late to halt this week’s strike action in schools, we hope that fresh talks may take place later this week to advance discussions towards an improved offer.
“Only a significantly improved offer from the Scottish Government and COSLA can bring an end to this dispute.”
A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: “While there was a shared understanding that today’s talks were focussed on examining options for compromise, rather than tabling a new offer, dialogue was constructive.
“The Scottish Government continues to urge teaching unions to reconsider their plans for industrial action while talks are ongoing.
“We value our teaching workforce and recognise the vital importance of an agreement on pay, but we cannot escape the unprecedented pressures facing Scotland’s budget.
“While we have been clear that a 10 per cent pay increase is unaffordable within the Scottish Government’s fixed budget, we remain absolutely committed to a fair and sustainable pay deal.”
“Strikes in our schools are in no one’s interest – including for pupils, parents and carers who have already had to deal with significant disruption over the past three years.
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