Full Breakdown
School Support Staff Face Significant Pay Disparities
2/28/2026, 5:22:13 AM
Financial Shortfall for Support Staff
Research conducted by the GMB union has revealed that school support staff across the UK missed out on over £2.2 billion in potential earnings last year due to being paid solely during term time. The analysis indicates that if teaching assistants, cleaners, caterers, and administrative personnel were compensated for a full 52 weeks instead of the current 44, their annual wages could increase by as much as £4,094. This collective shortfall affects approximately 800,000 workers on term-time contracts for the 2024/25 period.
Union Response and Demands
Stacey Booth, GMB national officer, highlighted the financial strain on school support staff, stating, “Hard-up school support staff are being discriminated against by these term time-only contracts.” She emphasized that these workers miss out on over £4,000 annually, a disparity not faced by teachers or council workers. In response to the ongoing financial challenges, GMB, along with other unions such as Unison and Unite, is advocating for a pay rise of at least £3,000 or 10% for the 2026/27 period, whichever is greater, alongside a minimum hourly wage of £15.
Historical Context of Pay Disparities
The unions have pointed out that the real value of local government pay has decreased by more than 26% since 2010, exacerbating the financial difficulties faced by support staff amid rising household costs and energy bills. Currently, school support staff negotiate their pay and conditions with the National Joint Council (NJC), which also represents council workers. Although the UK Government has committed to establishing a dedicated School Support Staff Negotiating Body, it is not expected to address pay and conditions until the 2027/28 period.
Official Statements & Responses
The NJC has agreed to meet with unions to discuss wages this month, indicating a willingness to engage in dialogue regarding the financial challenges faced by school support staff. Meanwhile, the Department for Education (DfE) is introducing a new government-backed guide aimed at helping parents formally address concerns with schools, in light of a rise in escalated disputes.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics argue that the delay in establishing a dedicated negotiating body for school support staff reflects a lack of urgency in addressing their financial needs. The unions contend that the current system fails to adequately represent the interests of support staff, who play a crucial role in the educational system.
What's Next
As discussions regarding wage negotiations unfold, the GMB and other unions are expected to continue advocating for improved pay and conditions for school support staff. The outcome of these negotiations will be closely monitored by both workers and educational institutions.
