Arabic version: معلمو كانبيرا يخططون لإضراب كامل اليوم من أجل تحسين الظروف

The Australian Education Union (AEU) ACT branch has announced a full-day strike planned for June 11, following a two-hour work stoppage by public school teachers in Canberra. This decision comes as negotiations for a new enterprise agreement with the ACT government remain unresolved. According to ABC News, the union’s members are advocating for better resources and staffing in schools.

During the recent two-hour strike, teachers expressed their frustrations regarding classroom conditions. Olivia Neilson, a teacher at Throsby School, emphasized the need for adequate resources and staffing to provide stability for students. She highlighted the challenges of managing large class sizes, stating that she has taught classes with up to 50 children a couple of times in a row.

Jackson St George, a teacher from Belconnen High School, voiced concerns about safety for teachers, citing that they are among the most assaulted professionals in the country. He indicated that this strike is just the beginning, with more significant actions to follow if their demands are not met.

Angela Burroughs, president of the AEU ACT branch, criticized the ACT government for being out of touch with the needs of educators. She argued that the goodwill of teachers has allowed the government to overlook necessary improvements in the education system. The union is calling for commitments to minimum staffing levels and recognition of the additional resources required for students to succeed.