Teacher strikes in Leeds have become a hot topic in recent months, with educators demanding better working conditions, higher pay, and increased support for students.

 

 

In 2022 alone, 370 strikes across a range of professions have been in protest of the working conditions, including low pay and the increasing workload that many people are facing.In Leeds, teachers have been at the forefront of these protests, and many have taken to the streets to demand change.

The striking teachers have received widespread support from parents and students, who have recognized the vital role that teachers play in shaping the future of their children. The strikes have also sparked a wider conversation about the importance of investing in education and the need for better working conditions for those who dedicate their lives to shaping the minds of young people.

Despite the support, the strikes have been met with resistance from the government and school administrators, who argue that the demands of the striking teachers are unrealistic and that they must be mindful of the financial constraints faced by schools.

The teachers, however, remain steadfast in their demands, stating that they cannot continue to work in a system that does not value their contributions and puts the needs of students at risk. They argue that low pay and excessive workloads are not only a disservice to teachers but also to the students they serve. Therefore, on Wednesday 1st of February 2023 the teachers have said enough is enough and are going on strike, with more than 23,000 schools across England and Wales being effected.

 

Here I am with a key worker (she wishes to remain anonymous at this point in time) who has experienced the First Hand struggles of her field and what the strikes mean to her. She says, “People don’t just drop and go on strike, it takes so much negotiation and trying to the point where people don’t want to try anymore.". She also continues to say striking is like getting paid for washing dishes, but having no dish soap, no rubber gloves, no running water and dirt and food all over the floor. That’s how the key workers feel right now.