Why teachers in England could go on strike – despite receiving a pay rise

• Teachers in the UK are set to receive a 3.5% pay rise from September, with a further 3% increase from September 2027, as recommended by the School Teachers’ Review Body.
• The Department for Education (DfE) has mandated that schools must partially fund the pay award, covering the initial 1% of each increase, despite unions advocating for a fully government-funded rise.
• The National Education Union (NEU) is "considering all options," including a formal ballot for industrial action, arguing that the partial funding will lead to cuts and potential job losses in schools.
• While the government will provide an additional £1.8 billion for schools and £485 million for further education over two years, other unions like NAHT and ASCL warn that the partial funding will still place significant pressure on existing school budgets.
• The DfE also announced a cap of £174,000 on academy trust executives' pay from September, requiring government approval for roles advertised above this salary.

IN FULL

Teachers in England could strike after schools told they must fund pay rises