NATIONAL Education Union (NEU) members at Falmouth’s St Francis C of E Primary School have won a series of important commitments from Kernow Learning Trust after taking six days of strike action.

After a challenging and difficult period, the members have helped to secure changes that will directly improve the wellbeing of staff and the education of children.

NEU members remained hopeful that a swift and positive resolution would be met after strike action took place throughout July, where teachers and support staff were joined on the picket line by parents, carers and local residents.

Martin Dixon, NEU Cornwall President, said: “This is a victory for fairness and justice at work. Our members acted with professionalism and determination throughout, and they now have the protections and support they deserve. We are proud of what has been achieved, and proud of the solidarity that made it possible.”

The headline wins for staff and pupils include:

  • End to excessive scrutiny: No formal observations, replaced by a supportive peer-to-peer coaching model with clear safeguards.
  • Fair working time: A directed-time calendar agreed with NEU, giving staff clarity and protection on their workload.
  • Improved behaviour support: A new SLT call-out protocol and whole-staff training to ensure children’s needs are met fairly and safely.
  • Better communication: Daily notices and a new SLT email system, ensuring staff get timely responses.
  • Wellbeing and safety: The Health and Safety Executive’s Talking Toolkit will address stress and anxiety, along with termly ‘laser conversations’.

These improvements have come due to staff taking the difficult step of strike action and remaining united together throughout the dispute. The NEU paid tribute to the dedication of the school’s union representatives, who gave members confidence and a clear voice.

A spokesperson for the NEU said: “This dispute was never about pay — it was about creating the conditions for teachers and support staff to do their jobs properly, fairly and sustainably. Parents, carers and pupils will benefit from calmer classrooms, clearer systems, and staff who are respected and supported.

“The outcome at St Francis shows what is possible when education staff act collectively. Other schools facing excessive workload, poor communication or lack of wellbeing support can look to this as proof that standing strong delivers real results.”