Strike close all Glasgow primary, secondary and ASL schools this month

The closures on March 18 and 24 are due to strike action by members of the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) , Scotland’s largest teaching union, in an ongoing national dispute over workload.

The strike will affect all primary, secondary and ASL schools across Glasgow, though nursery schools will remain open.

The closures on March 18 and 24 are due to strike action by members of the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS), Scotland’s largest teaching union, in an ongoing national dispute over workload. (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesperson for Glasgow City Council said: “Strikes have been called by the EIS for Wednesday 18 and Tuesday 24 March.

“All of our primary, secondary and ASL schools will close.

“Info sent to families from schools.

“Nursery schools will remain open but nursery classes in primary schools will also close.”

We reported today that the EIS said teachers were working significantly beyond their contracted hours, often spending personal time preparing lessons and marking work.

The union is calling for a reduction in maximum class contact time and the recruitment of additional staff to ease the workload and support teacher wellbeing.

Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth has acknowledged the dispute and promised further investment, expressing hope for a resolution to avoid disruption.

She said: “No one’s interests will be served by industrial action in our schools.

“This will significantly disrupt children and young people’s learning, particularly in the crucial period leading up to exams, as well as causing disruption to parents, carers and school communities.”

Talks between union representatives and government officials are understood to be ongoing.

The action in Glasgow is part of wider strike plans expected to affect multiple local authorities across Scotland, potentially impacting thousands of pupils and families.

The industrial action in Glasgow follows a strong mandate for strike action from teachers across Scotland, with 85% of those balloted backing the walkout on a turnout of 60%

The strike will affect all primary, secondary and ASL schools across Glasgow, though nursery schools will remain open. (Image: Sourced)

EIS members in East Renfrewshire are also planning to strike on March 17 and March 23, which will see all secondary schools, primary schools, nursery classes, and Isobel Mair School closed on those dates.

A statement from East Renfrewshire Council said: “Strike action from the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) Trade Union, which represents teachers, will affect all our schools and nursery classes.

“All secondary schools, primary schools, nursery classes within schools and Isobel Mair School will be closed on Tuesday, March 17 and Monday, March 23.

“All our family centres will remain open and operate as normal.”