College open as usual during UCU strikes 14-16 Jan

However, the college will remain open for teaching and learning on 14, 15, 16 January 2026 as the majority of staff will be in work.

Students and apprentices must attend college as normal in line with the normal timetable unless they are informed differently. We have plans in place to support students to remain in learning over this period if their tutor is on strike. If there are any changes to the plans, the Curriculum Manager will advise students/apprentices via Teams. This will include any communication to employers for apprentices.

Students may be directed to work independently in one of our digital suites or learning centres or alternatively be given work to do from home.

Students on Pathways study programmes will be asked not to attend college; however, work will be set for them to continue in learning from home. The Head of Inclusion has made appropriate arrangements to advise Pathways students and their parents/carers.

Please note that all college facilities, including the refectory, will be operating as usual. When coming into college students may see some union representatives, between 7.00am and 10.00am, standing outside entrances to the college peacefully sharing their reasons for this action. The College Management Team will provide additional presence in order to support students appropriately.

Please be reassured that every effort is being made to support your child effectively during this action.

I wish to share with parents and guardians that the college has offered one of the most favourable pay awards across the college sector, above the 4% recommended by the Association of Colleges. Our teachers this year will receive a total of a 6% pay award which includes a 2% bonus, all of which has been back dated to the 1st August 2025. All staff received the pay award in December. We do fully understand the need for government to recognise the incredible work of the Further Education sector and reward its staff in line with schools.

Therefore, we will continue to work hard to prioritise pay, terms and conditions for all staff at the college alongside the essential investment in our facilities and resources to support our students and apprentices to thrive. Our board and senior management team continue to be proactive with government departments in our endeavour to influence national policy on pay for the sector.

In the meantime, if you have any questions, please email our helpline helpline@chesterfield.ac.uk

Best wishes

Julie

Julie Richards OBE

Principal and CEO, Chesterfield College Group