School leaders in Wales are moving towards a formal industrial action ballot after NAHT Cymru said negotiations with the Welsh Government had broken down.
The union announced on 15 October that its national executive had authorised a statutory ballot of members across Wales, escalating a dispute over pay and working conditions. This is a move towards possible action, rather than an announcement of strike dates.
At the centre of the pay dispute is a 3.5% increase for teachers and school leaders for 2026–27, below the 4.25% recommended by the Independent Welsh Pay Review Body. NAHT Cymru also says government measures have not adequately addressed excessive workload and pressures on school leadership.
NAHT Cymru president Kerina Hanson said growing demands, limited resources and recruitment difficulties were making school leadership increasingly difficult to sustain.
The Welsh Government says the recommended pay increase was unaffordable within existing budgets. It argues that additional funding for Additional Learning Needs will help relieve workload pressures and says it remains ready to resume discussions with the union and employers.
Why it matters: The dispute raises questions about schools’ capacity to retain experienced leaders and support pupils, particularly those with additional learning needs. Industrial action could also disrupt school operations if members subsequently vote to proceed.
