Handling strike action in schools : Guidance for school leaders, governing bodies and employers

This updated document provides advice on keeping schools open on strike days and explains the law on trade disputes and picketing.

In the event of strike action at a school, the Department for Education (DfE) expects the headteacher to take all reasonable steps to keep the school open for as many pupils as possible.

The decision to open, restrict attendance, or close a maintained school is for the headteacher. The decision for academies rests with the academy trust but is usually delegated to the principal.  It is best practice for headteachers to consult governors, parents and the Local Authority, academy trust or diocesan representative (where appropriate) before deciding whether to close or restrict attendance. The National Governance Association (NGA) also notes that:

“Headteachers should consult with their governing boards before deciding whether to close. Clearly it is best to consult with the whole board, however, circumstances may mean that the headteachers need to consult urgently with the chair. The role of the board (or chair as appropriate) is to seek assurance that the headteacher has given due regard to the DfE guidance and that all reasonable steps have been taken to keep the school open for as many pupils as possible.”

The guidance notes that headteachers are entitled to ask staff whether they intend to strike. It is important that parents or carers are notified at the earliest opportunity if their child is unable to attend school due to industrial action.