IA major breakthrough has been reached in the long-running industrial dispute affecting the academy trust responsible for two Ilkeston schools, although negotiations with one union are continuing.
St Ralph Sherwin Catholic Multi Academy Trust, which runs Saint John Houghton Catholic Voluntary Academy and St Thomas Catholic Voluntary Academy in Ilkeston, has confirmed that UNISON has formally withdrawn its planned strike action after reaching a settlement with the Trust.
According to UNISON, the agreement protects pay and year-round contracts for many support staff, reverses some proposed cuts and includes commitments to improve working arrangements, greater transparency and increased staff involvement in future decisions.
The breakthrough follows months of disruption across the Trust’s 25 schools, where industrial action was launched in response to proposed restructuring and redundancies linked to the Trust’s financial recovery programme.
Talks continue with NEU
While the agreement marks a significant step forward, the dispute has not yet been fully resolved.
In a letter to parents, Acting Chief Executive Lisa Walton said the National Education Union (NEU) had previously agreed to suspend several planned strike days while talks continued.
However, she confirmed that three strike dates remain scheduled for 14, 15 and 16 July unless an agreement can be reached.
Ms Walton said she continued to work closely with union representatives and had also offered to meet directly with staff taking industrial action.
“I continue to work tirelessly… to seek a resolution with the trade unions,” she told parents.
“I am motivated by one desire: to see children back in affected schools, uninterrupted, with their brilliant staff, partaking in an outstanding Catholic education.”
She also confirmed the Trust is awaiting formal notification following a ballot involving NASUWT members.
Financial recovery continues
The industrial dispute stems from the Trust’s efforts to address a reported £9.2 million financial deficit, which has led to restructuring proposals and planned redundancies across the organisation.
Ms Walton said the Trust remained committed to its financial recovery plan while working to rebuild relationships with staff.
“I cannot be reckless with finances,” she wrote.
“Education trusts are charities, financed through public money… We are currently making very good progress with this plan.”
The Trust has also begun work on a new strategic plan covering the period from 2026 to 2030, with Ms Walton saying parents and other stakeholders will be invited to help shape its future direction.