Every headteacher in Wales is being asked to back a campaign to end term-time only pay for school support staff and share a new petition with their workforce.

Unison Cymru is writing to every school in Wales asking heads to pass the petition on to support staff and display campaign information in staff rooms, kitchens and offices.

The campaign is aimed at all school support staff whose pay is calculated around the 39 weeks schools are open.

Unison says their pay should instead be calculated over 52 weeks, as it is for teachers and headteachers.

The union says term-time only pay traps many support staff in poverty and treats a predominantly female workforce unfairly, despite the vital role these employees play supporting children’s welfare and learning.

Unison Cymru regional secretary Jess Turner said: “Term time only pay is a scandal that traps the overwhelmingly female workforce in poverty.

“It cannot be right that school support staff pay is only calculated on the 39 weeks they are in school.

“Everyone, no matter what their role, comes to school to support, encourage and help children and young people learn.

“Their pay should also reflect the value that they bring and be calculated against a 52-week year.”

Unison Cymru School Support Staff Forum chair Sara Allen said: “Teaching assistants, reception staff, caretakers and other support staff are essential to children’s education and wellbeing, yet too many are struggling to make ends meet on term-time only pay.

“Headteachers see the value of support staff every day.

“Backing this petition is a simple way to stand alongside the people who keep schools running and tell the Welsh government this unfair system must end.

“School support staff deserve pay that reflects the contribution they make. Thousands acting together can send a powerful message that it’s time for change.”