Staff pay update: What the latest support staff offer means for your budget

The National Employers have announced a ‘full and final’ pay offer of  3.3% for local government support staff. 

Trade unions had submitted a higher claim in December 2025 of: 

• 10% or at least £3000 whichever was greater across all pay points.
• A minimum pay rate of £15 per hour.
• A 2-hour reduction in the working week.
• An increase of one day annual leave.
• The ability of all school support staff to take a day of paid leave during term time.
• The abolition of level 1 Teaching Assistants and instead all Level 1 post holders move to Level 2. 

These proposals were rejected, with the last two rejected on the basis that the School Support Staff Negotiating Body (SSSNB), due to be re-introduced later this year, would be responsible for negotiating on national terms and conditions. 

The current offer will now proceed through the collective bargaining process with trade unions. 

What this means for schools and trusts: 

• The offer applies to support staff employed under Green Book terms and conditions.
• No immediate action is required while consultation is ongoing.
• Schools and trusts should await confirmation of the final agreed position before implementing any changes.

Once agreed, any pay award is expected to be applied and backdated in line with national guidance. In the meantime, schools and trusts may wish to factor a potential 3.3% uplift budget planning and wider workforce strategies. 

We will continue to monitor developments and share further updates as negotiations progress available.