We acknowledge the planned strike action involving some teaching staff members, which is set to commence on Tuesday, 21 January. The strike is in response to an ongoing consultation with the school governors concerning a proposed change to academic pension arrangements. Background: OLA, alongside many other schools in the independent sector are consulting with academic staff in respect of a proposed change to teaching staff pension arrangements withdrawing from the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS). The school’s teachers are currently offered membership of the TPS. The rates of contribution to the TPS are set by Government by way of four yearly valuations of the scheme over which the school has no control. In April last year the TPS employer contribution rate increased by over 20% (from 23.68% to 28.68% of teachers’ salaries). This followed an increase from 16.48% to 23.68% in September 2019. The increasing and uncontrollable costs associated with the scheme, present a significant financial risk to the school and governors are concerned that the associated cost may not be sustainable. In response to these challenges, the school initially proposed a withdrawal from the TPS, but have since adjusted the proposal to offer a hybrid pension arrangement. This means that the school would continue to offer the TPS to its existing teaching staff and introduce a new defined contribution pension scheme to run alongside it. The consultation remains ongoing, and no decisions have been made. It is important to note that some 380 independent schools have withdrawn from TPS and 260 have entered “phased withdrawal” status, effectively notifying the TPS of their eventual intention to leave the scheme. As such, a total of 640 schools have taken steps to leave the TPS. These numbers do not include all of those schools that have sought to implement a “hybrid” pension model of the kind the school is currently proposing. Many other independent schools are considering their options and are either consulting or preparing to consult with staff. As such, we are not uniquely positioned. With the introduction of VAT upon school fees, the loss of business rate tax relief and increases to employer NI contributions, it is critical that the school manages its financial position sustainably and responsibly, whilst offering fair and reasonable pension terms to its staff. Impact on School Operations: Our Lady’s Abingdon School will remain open during the strike period. We have implemented contingency plans to ensure the continuity of education for our students. While the planned strike action presents challenges, we have arranged for cover in the affected classes. We are confident that our students' learning will not be significantly disrupted, and we are committed to resolving the dispute with the staff and their representatives. Our priority remains the well-being and education of our students, and we are actively working towards a resolution that addresses the concerns of all parties involved. Valuing Our Teachers: We hold our teachers in the highest regard and recognise the critical role they play in shaping the future of our students. Their dedication, passion, and commitment to education are invaluable, and we deeply appreciate their role in our school community. We are committed to ensuring that their concerns are heard and addressed with the respect and consideration they deserve. We understand the concerns of parents, students, and the wider community and appreciate the patience and support of everyone as we navigate this challenging period. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. For further information or to discuss any specific concerns, please contact our school administration office. Contact Information: Our Lady’s Abingdon School Radley Road Abingdon-on-Thames Oxfordshire OX14 3PS All press enquiries to: [email protected] Prav Karian Executive Leader End of Press Release