This in from Phil at the University and College Union (UCU). Ed
Update 15.52
UCU strike has been called off as a consequence of a High Court injunction from the Association of Colleges. No further details available at this moment.
A national pay dispute could cause disruption at The Isle of Wight College next Tuesday (14 October) as the academic staff union strikes over failure to agree a national pay claim.
UCU – the union representing academic staff in both colleges and universities – balloted its members over a pay offer of 0.7%. The decision to strike came after 71% voted for action.
The day of action affects all further education colleges across the country.
Phil Truckel, UCU Branch Chair at the College says such a decision to strike is not taken lightly and is considered a last resort:
“The offer of just 0.7% for 2013/14 represents a 16% pay cut in real terms over the past four to five years, something near to £5,000 a year.
“In addition we have still not received an agreed rise of 0.7% and 0.5% for the two previous years, whilst staff are struggling with increased workloads and excessive working hours.
“We know the realities when we come into this profession, but a further erosion of the reward is a step too far. Average full-time pay for FE lecturers continues to be significantly lower than for schoolteachers.
“If we, as parents, colleagues and employers want outstanding education in our community, then we should expect to be recruiting the best people into teaching. That does not happen if the pay and conditions are perceived as poor.
“I ask that parents, colleagues and our employers support this action for a better funded further education sector. It is about being treated fairly as professionals and ensuring our College can continue to provide effective and sustainable education for our Island community.”
