“The Government and the education trade unions, Association of School and College Leaders, National Association of Head Teachers, NASUWT and National Education Union, have agreed to move into a period of intensive talks. The talks will focus on teacher pay, conditions and workload reduction.

“In order for talks to begin and, we hope, reach a successful conclusion, the NEU has confirmed it will create a period of calm for two weeks during which time they have said no further strike dates will be announced. The Education Secretary and all unions will meet today (Friday 17 March), beginning intensive talks, which will continue over the weekend.”

In order to protect the integrity of the talks, all parties have agreed not to make any public statements on the details of the talks - including through the media and on social media.