Support staff at a Wycombe school are set to stage strike action this week in a dispute over what staff say are reduced break times.

Members of the support staff at Chiltern Wood School in High Wycombe will walk out on Thursday (July 9), with a picket line planned outside the Downley site in Faulkner Way from 7.30am.

The school said it was aware that industrial action had been called by the National Education Union.

In a statement the headteacher Rachel Chapman said the industrial action was in response to the school decision to standardise lunch breaks.

She said: “Our staff are the heart of Chiltern Wood. Their professionalism, commitment and care make a real difference to the lives of our pupils every day, and we value the dedication they show to supporting children and young people with special educational needs.

“The industrial action is in response to the schools' decision to standardise lunch breaks, ensuring a fair and consistent amount of time is available to teaching support staff across the school. This change was implemented following a full consultation with staff.

“We respect the legal right of employees to take lawful industrial action, while recognising that this may be a worrying and inconvenient time for pupils and their families.”

The school said it was focused on ensuring a safe environment for pupils and minimising disruption wherever possible.

She added: “We have been planning carefully for the proposed strike, we are communicating directly with families and will have further contact if any changes to arrangements have to be made.

“We hope that a resolution can be reached as soon as possible. We would like to thank our pupils, families and staff for their understanding, patience and support.”