TEACHERS at a £6,000-a-term private school have called off strikes after securing up to 12.6 per cent pay rises matching the state sector, the National Education Union (NEU) said today.

Staff at Ballard School in New Milton, Hampshire, planned walk-outs for five days in June and July after pay at the school fell behind inflation.

They rejected a four per cent rise imposed by the school in March but have now called off strikes after governors agreed to match pay to the state sector, backdating payments to September 2023, with a cost-of-living increase from September this year.

NEU rep James Blake said: “We are delighted that the governors have not only agreed to a substantial increase in pay for teachers on the lower salary scales to match state sector but also their commitment to a much improved negotiation process with a promise of more engagement and better communication with staff in the future.”

A spokeswoman for the school said: “Ballard prides itself on its nurturing environment and pastoral care, a wide range of opportunities inside and outside the classroom and excellent teaching delivered by a passionate teaching body.

“With VAT on fees an impact of a likely change of Government next month, it is more important now than ever that the school stands together for sake of our young people and ensures the school continues to flourish and grow during the challenging times ahead.”