Job cuts loom for school support staff

Rumours had been circulating that three librarians at the school were facing redundancy.

A statement released by the Shooting Field school confirmed that it was looking to make changes to their ‘support staff structure’ but did not confirm or deny the rumours.

It said: “Like most schools Steyning Grammar is facing a significant reduction in funding as a result of the current public sector spending cuts.

“Having already reviewed the teaching staff structure, postponed proposed building developments and improved financial monitoring procedures we are now consulting support staff and unions about changes to our support staff structure.”

The consultation with staff is due to end on today (Tuesday November 8), they added: “Once responses have been considered and any amendments made, a final structure will be published.”

Talking to the County Times Sarah McGreal, UNISON regional organiser, said: “The West Sussex branch is involved with collecting information for the consultation.

“However, one thing that has been achieved by the County Council is the agreement of re-deployment being open to school staff across West Sussex.”

She added that ‘real cuts were happening in schools’.

Chief executive of the Chartered Institute of Library & Information Professionals, Annie Mauger said: “Sadly this is a familiar story from many parts of the country and any redundancies will have a direct impact on children at the school.

“We live in an information rich digital age, but if children leave school without being able to read well or understand how to judge whether information is trustworthy or not, they will struggle in life.”

The school stated that it had been following national guidelines on employment consultations. “We have been advised by West Sussex Human Resources Department throughout this process. We remain committed to our vision of supporting every person in being the best they can be.”