SOME schools will close and others will only be open to certain classes tomorrow (Wed) as members of the largest teaching union go on strike.

A picket line is expected outside of Nailsea School in the morning before members of the National Union of Teachers (NUT) move on to a march and rally in Bristol.

In North Somerset, a number of primary, infant, junior and secondary schools willclose to certain year groups while others, including Wraxall Primary, are expected to close in full.

The national strike is being held as part of a continuing campaign to protect pay and pensions and to ensure teachers’ workloads are not so large they cannot deliver the best possible teaching to their pupils. It follows a series of regional strikes in the autumn and comes after government changes were announced which will see teachers work until they are 68, a reduction in the pension package and the introduction of performance-related pay.

North Somerset NUT secretary Jon Reddiford said: “Teacher workload is unsustainable and the thought of doing the job until 68 is driving many away from the job.

“Teacher morale is at dangerously low levels.

“Children need teachers who are fresh and well-motivated, not tired and demoralised.

“We do apologise for the inconvenience to parents but we hope they will support us.”

At Gordano School, more than 30 teachers are expected to take part in the strike resulting in the facility being closed to pupils in years seven to nine. At Backwell School, another significant reduction in staff numbers means it is also expected to be closed to years seven to nine. St Katherine’s School in Pill will only be open to years seven, 11 and sixth form.

* For full details, parents are advised to contact their individual schools to find out what arrangements are in place during the strike.