90% Support Royal Alexandra Albert School Strike Amid Escalating Boarding Dispute

Teachers at the Royal Alexandra and Albert School in Reigate walked out on Tuesday. The ballot returned 90% support on an 89% turnout, the union said. Five further strike days are scheduled later this month and in May.

Dispute issues and proposals

The National Education Union says the row centres on several changes. These include proposals for up to 12 job losses, removal of pensionable allowances, and charging market rents to resident staff.

The union also protested the school’s refusal to recognise it. NEU representatives argue these moves would alter the economics of working on site.

School response and governance

School leaders describe the plans as part of “Project Gatton.” They emphasise the process is still a consultation and say no final decisions have been made.

Executive head Morgan Thomas said management is trying to limit disruption. Surrey County Council clarified staff are employed by the school’s governing body, not the council.

Union demands

Nick Childs, a senior industrial officer at the NEU, set out core union demands. They include no compulsory redundancies, protection of allowances and rents, and formal recognition of the union.

The union warned that changes to terms and accommodation could harm staffing stability and education standards.

Strike action and immediate impact

Union organisers reported partial closure on strike days. Picket lines were in place between 07:30 ET and 09:30 ET, they said.

Officials added they believed this was the first employer-led strike in the school’s history. The strong ballot result gave the action a clear mandate.

Wider implications for state boarding

The school is one of 32 state boarding schools in England. That rarity makes the dispute a focal point for similar institutions.

Observers say the case highlights tensions around staffing costs, accommodation arrangements and union recognition. Other state boarding schools will be watching the outcome closely.

Outlook

Negotiations continue as both sides meet in consultation. If parties fail to reach compromise, further strikes could extend the stand-off.

The central question remains whether talks will resolve the escalating boarding dispute. Families and staff await clarity on education continuity and working conditions.

Filmogaz.com will monitor developments and report on any new agreements or scheduled industrial action.