28 OCT 2023

DfE to introduce minimum service levels in colleges

The Department for Education  has announced the introduction of minimum service levels in schools and colleges to mitigate the impact of strike actions, following over 10 days of strikes this year due to disputes over teacher pay and working conditions, resulting in a cumulative loss of 25 million school days. Strike actions in colleges have been on the rise, with staff from 32 colleges voting to strike this autumn.

Proposal and Implementation: Education Secretary Gillian Keegan has initiated dialogue with union leaders for a voluntary agreement on the proposed minimum service levels. However, the government is prepared to enforce these levels through the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act, a controversial law introduced earlier in the year. The government emphasises the necessity of these measures to prevent disruption in education, especially in the post-pandemic recovery phase.

Reactions: Responses from union leaders and education professionals are mixed. Some see the move as an attempt to distract from the DfE's failures, while others believe it infringes on the basic rights of employees, highlighting that industrial action is a last resort. Conversely, some bodies like the Association of Colleges are willing to engage in discussions to reach a voluntary agreement, emphasising the need to consider the unique circumstances of colleges.

Potential Implications: If enforced, unions will be required to ensure that a minimum level of service is maintained during strikes, with significant consequences for both unions and their members if this is not achieved. The consultation process is expected to be similar to that of ambulance services, where employers must identify and inform unions of the essential personnel required to maintain minimum service levels during industrial actions.

Conclusion: The government's proposal to introduce minimum service levels in schools and colleges aims to balance the need for fair employment practices and the essential requirement of uninterrupted education for children and young people. The success of this initiative hinges on the government’s ability to navigate the complex landscape of union negotiations, legal implications, and the unique challenges posed by the education sector.