School leaders across Northern Ireland have voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action in a ballot conducted by school leaders’ union NAHT(NI), delivering what the union has described as an “unmistakable mandate” for change.

Members have voted 96% in favour of industrial action short of strike and 81% in favour of strike action, reflecting the depth of concern across the profession about workload, funding pressures and the sustainability of school leadership.

The ballot follows the union’s formal dispute with employers and the Department of Education, which was initiated earlier this year in response to escalating pressures on school leaders.

Dr Graham Gault, National Secretary of NAHT(NI), said:

“This is an exceptionally strong mandate and one that reflects the reality of what school leaders are experiencing every day in schools across Northern Ireland.

“Members have spoken with remarkable clarity. They are telling us that the current situation is no longer sustainable and that meaningful action is needed to address the pressures that are preventing them from carrying out their core responsibilities of leading learning, supporting staff and safeguarding children.”

NAHT(NI) said it has pursued every possible opportunity to resolve the dispute through dialogue and constructive engagement.

Simon Mowbray, President of NAHT(NI), said:

“School leaders have shown enormous patience throughout this process. They have continued to put children first while carrying levels of responsibility and pressure that would be unacceptable in any profession.

“Today's result demonstrates the extent to which concerns are shared across every phase and sector of education. It sends a powerful signal that the profession expects meaningful change, not further delay.”

The union said that recent discussions have produced some movement, but not yet enough to resolve the dispute fully.

Rob Kelsall, Assistant General Secretary of NAHT said:

“While discussions continue, we are not yet in a position to put an offer to our members.

"Today’s overwhelming ballot result sends a clear message about the strength of feeling among school leaders and gives us a strong mandate to secure meaningful change.

"The ball is now firmly in the court of the Northern Ireland Executive and employers. Industrial action is always a last resort, and school leaders do not take such decisions lightly. However, time for talking is fast running out.

"We remain committed to reaching a fair and sustainable agreement, but if that cannot be achieved, we are prepared to act on the mandate our members have given us.”

Simon Mowbray concluded:

“Whatever happens over the coming days, school leaders should be immensely proud of the collective voice they have demonstrated today. It is a powerful statement about the need to protect both the profession and the children it serves.”