Kingston teachers plan strike

Teachers across Kingston and Richmond have planned a day of strikes next week, in protest over changes to pensions.

Kingston Informer reports that on Thursday 30th June schools in both areas will be affected as National Union of Teachers (NUT) members walk out following disputes over pension reforms.

Khawer Siddiqi from the Kingston branch of the NUT said: "This strike is extremely important. A lot of Kingston schools are going to be closed.

"The only teachers not taking part are those on school trips or those who are involved in things that are important for the school. Otherwise people are solidly behind it."

The strike comes as a result of government plans that will see teachers working for longer for a smaller pension.

"We're expected to spend more, expected to work longer and receive less, which I think is totally unfair. Feelings are very high about this," Siddiqi added.

Kingston Council has advised parents to check its website for updates, saying: "If schools close, we will do our very best to give parents as much notice as possible."