The National Union of Teachers has called a one-day national strike for Wednesday, March 26, as part of the campaign to protect pay, pensions and to ensure a workload that means your children receive the best possible teaching.

The changes the government want to make that we believe are damaging include: l Teachers working until they are 68 or beyond l Increasing pension contributions by 50 per cent and reducing the pension package l Introducing performance related pay Recent figures published by the government show that teachers in primary schools are working 60 hours a week. We think this is too much and is one of the reasons why so many young teachers are leaving.

In addition, the NUT are fighting to ensure that: l Every classroom in every school has a qualified teacher l Local authorities can open new schools where needed l Changes to the curriculum and exams are positive and well planned l New teachers are encouraged into the profession l Schools work together and are properly and equitably funded Teachers in Wiltshire never like taking action which interferes with your children’s education. But it is because we care passionately about the quality of teaching and learning in school that we have to stand up and ensure that all the good practice can continue.

We hope that you will support us in the strike action on March 26. Teachers and parents standing together to protect the children’s education sends a strong message to Michael Gove. Further information can be found at www.teachers.org.uk/parents.

Mike Harrison, Secretary Wiltshire NUT, Hanover Terrace, Bath BA1 6LJ.