UPDATED: Hundreds of students have walked out of lessons at Cowes Enterprise College this morning (Friday) in a peaceful protest against staff cuts at the school.
Shortly after morning registration, pupils of the Crossfield Avenue school walked out onto the field to raise their point about the number of unwanted job losses expected, believed to be up to 26 positions including those in a special education needs support role.
Police have been called to the scene and despite the protest being peaceful, some students have started a fire on the playing field with a deodorant can and using their shirts, prompting firefighters from Newport Fire Station to attend the scene. The fire has been extinguished and crews have now returned to station.
UPDATE @ 12:20 – A number of Police vehicles are now in attendance at the school as the strike continues, with many pupils spilling out onto the road and in the playing fields surrounding.
UPDATE @ 16:18 – In a statement released this afternoon, College Principal Rebecca Pearce has said:
“Students were allowed onto the college field after registration this morning to carry out a peaceful protest about their concerns on the proposed staff restructure. They were asked to present their case in a civilised manner, and all issues raised will be taken into consideration once the consultation period comes to an end on 2nd May.
“We understand the students’ frustration over the proposed restructure, and as today has shown, Cowes Enterprise pupils are passionate about the college and staff, and we will be looking at all the concerns raised during the peaceful protest.”
In addition, the Cowes Enterprise College Governing Body has said:
“Two years ago we announced to staff that we would be reviewing the staffing structure once we had moved into the new build. This restructure is for economic reasons, not as a result of the conversion to academy status.
“Students are entitled to a peaceful protest, and their points will be listened to by the governing body. We are disappointed that a small number have turned this into something more.
“This is a difficult time, and we have to ensure that our budgets are balanced. In these times, it is important to understand that we have to operate within our means. Governors value the teaching and support staff and we are keen to work collectively. The structure is still under consultation and until that is completed, no decisions will be made regarding the restructure.
“Ofsted has already reported improvements, and has been supportive of the need to restructure. The governing body is fully supportive of the principal, Rebecca Pearce who is leading further improvement at the college.”
The protest continued throughout the day, with several Police units attending the school to maintain control over the situation.
Pictured: Just a few of the students on strike this morning with Police and fire crews in attendance. First photo thanks to @sinclxir.
