Schools across London were today set to close as teachers stage a 24-hour strike in a row with the Government over funding.
Members of the National Union of Teachers (NUT) will be holding rallies and marches around the country after voting by more than 9-1 in favour of industrial action.
In London, the union claims the "vast majority" of the capital's schools will be affected either by shutting completely, partial closure or a reduced timetable.
They are demanding an increase in funding to schools, a guarantee of terms and conditions for workers, alongside further negotiations on teacher contracts.
The NUT has written to Education Secretary Nicky Morgan calling for "meaningful" discussions to tackle issues it said were badly affecting education.
Acting general secretary Kevin Courtney said: "The NUT is aware that strike action can be disruptive to parents and carers and for that we wholeheartedly apologise.
“Equally, teachers do not take strike action lightly. The problems facing education, however, are too great to be ignored and we know many parents share our concerns.
"The strike is about the underfunding of our schools and the negative impact it is having on children's education and teachers' terms and conditions.”
He added: "No parent wants this for their children. No teacher wants this for their school or pupils. With political parties in turmoil since the EU referendum, it is imperative that education is put to the forefront of every election campaign.
"The problems schools face need addressing immediately. We must not let the education of the next generation be sidelined."
The Government claims the strike action is “disappointing” and that union leaders had been offered talks with ministers to address their concerns.
Education Secretary Nicky Morgan has written to the NUT, saying the strike is unnecessary.
She wrote: “I am sorry that you have chosen the path of disruption over negotiation and discussion.”
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