PLANNED strike action by teachers at Highcrest Academy has been postponed entirely for this week.

The High Wycombe based academy made the announcement this morning, following “constructive” talks with unions yesterday.

Up to 38 staff from the academy in High Wycombe had planned to strike, with further action threatened for next week.

The proposed action by members of the NUT and NASUWT trade unions came after four teachers, represented by the NUT, were deducted pay for failing to attend an appraisal on an inset day.

Highcrest, based in Hatters Lane, said failing to attend was a breach of contract but unions said its members were acting on instructions as part of a national campaign to improve teachers’ working conditions, and were still on site carrying out normal work.

The academy says the unions’ issues with the appraisal itself have been addressed and that potential pay deductions are now withdrawn.

This morning’s statement from Highcrest said: “After some very constructive talks between the NASUWT, NUT, Governors and Management Team, enough has been achieved to recommend postponement of this week’s action, pending finalising yesterday’s positive discussions.

“The main issue around Career Stage Profile which led to potential deductions has been resolved and, subject to consultation with other teacher unions and staff, will be removed and replaced with an agreed simple audit against Teachers’ Standards.

"The effect of this is that the NASUWT and NUT are now satisfied that appraisals can be completed by all staff. Therefore all potential deductions are withdrawn.

“Unions will be discussing the finer detail with their members as soon as possible with a view to calling off all planned escalation.”

Check the site for updates on this story later today.