Strike Action to Close Nearly 30 Primary Schools in West Dunbartonshire
On Wednesday, almost 30 primary schools in West Dunbartonshire will close due to strike action initiated by support staff. The strike involves learning assistants who are walking out for one day amid a dispute concerning the grading of their roles.
These learning assistants provide essential personal care to children with disabilities, behavioural challenges, and complex medical needs. They have expressed concerns that their expertise and workload are not adequately reflected in their current pay structure.
A spokesperson for West Dunbartonshire Council conveyed disappointment regarding the decision to strike and noted ongoing discussions with the trade union Unison to resolve the dispute.
All primary schools in the area will be closed except for Levenvale, Knoxland, Linnvale, and St Mary's Primary School in Duntocher. These schools remain open as they do not employ grade three learning assistants.
The decision to strike followed a staff vote last month, with learning assistants stating they felt undervalued for the work they perform.
"Going on strike is the last thing these dedicated workers want to do
But they feel they've no choice after being undervalued and ignored. It's time the council took their work seriously and paid them properly for what they do."
— Gillian Bannatyne, Unison's regional organiser
The union argues that learning assistants should receive higher pay due to responsibilities that extend beyond their formal job descriptions. These include de-escalating violent incidents and providing personal care to vulnerable children.
A West Dunbartonshire Council spokesperson stated:
"We value the vital work learning assistants undertake within our classrooms and are disappointed they are taking industrial action.
We remain committed to minimising disruption where possible and are continuing to liaise with our union colleagues."
The council confirmed that a system is in place to evaluate pay for new positions and to re-assess salaries for existing roles. This system, the Scottish Joint Council Job Evaluation Scheme, involves joint evaluations with union analysts to ensure consistency and equal pay for work of equal value.
The spokesperson added that the council will continue to support employees through any subsequent job evaluation resubmissions.
