Don't Work at Fullhurst!
Before the summer holiday, Fullhurst Community College 'consulted' unions on the introduction of a probationary period for all teachers that it employs. This means that all new employees are required to complete 6 months (26 weeks) satisfactory probationary service before their appointment is confirmed. There are reduced rights for probationary teachers regarding capability and disciplinary actions. Why would a teacher with a permanent contract at a school give that up for what amounts to a temporary contract at another school? We are unaware of any other school in Leicester having a policy of this nature.
The NUT's response was a rejection of what we believe is a hostile and provocative action by the college:
We (the NUT) have particular concerns about the Probation Procedure and its extension to include teaching staff. We are shocked that at a time of crisis in teacher recruitment Fullhurst Community College's response is to introduce such a policy. This can only be interpreted as a provocative and hostile act and should it be implemented we would have no alternative but to advise NUT members to avoid applying to work at Fullhurst Community College.
It appears that governors have now discussed the policy and agreed its introduction. Under the circumstances, Leicester NUT advises members not to accept such a contract and not to seek employment at Fullhurst until the policy is dropped.