Members of staff represented by the NASUWT union at Merchant Taylors’ school in Crosby, Liverpool are preparing to walk out for five days of strike action in the coming weeks after receiving what the union has described as a “paltry” pay offer, The Echo has reported.

Around 41 staff members are set to strike on 26 and 27 February and again on 4 and 5 March.

NASUWT said the schools offer of a 1.14% pay increase isn’t acceptable.

There is also bad feeling at the school following the news that up to 18 staff members may be made redundant as part of plans to merge Merchant Taylors’ boys’ and girls’ schools from September.

The school is currently undertaking a consultation and a school spokesperson said: “The consultation aims to ensure a fair approach to staff streamlining, without impacting class sizes. The process will conclude by the end of the spring term, with more information shared thereafter.”

Speaking about redundancies, the school’s executive headteacher Dr Michael Alderson said: “We understand that changes can bring about uncertainty, and we are committed to handling this process with utmost care and consideration for all involved. We sincerely value the dedication and contributions of our staff, whose hard work and commitment have been integral to our success. Our goal is to ensure that the quality of education and support for our pupils remains our top priority throughout this transition.”