Six to lose their jobs at school

TWO teachers and four teaching assistants are set to be made redundant at Higher Failsworth Primary School.

Falling roles have left the school facing a large budget deficit and unions have been working with the local authority to avoid compulsory redundancies and find alternative jobs if necessary

Higher Failsworth was created when Stansfield Road junior and infant schools merged in 2004.

Head teacher Sue Kitchen said: “Governors have had to look at ways to balance our budget. After careful consideration and consultation with all concerned they have unfortunately had to begin a process of staff redundancies.

“The potential loss of such highly valued staff is of great concern to the whole school community who have contributed to the good results the school has seen.

“We will continue to put the needs of our children first and can assure parents and carers that we will continue to provide a high standard of care and education for our pupils.”

It is understood that some mixed year classes will be introduced.

Tony Harrison, joint branch secretary of Oldham NUT confirmed six jobs were involved and thinks the authority wants to make the redundancies by Christmas.

He added: “No time is a good time to lose your job. The school has tried to avoid job losses but it’s come to the crunch now.”