AROUND 100 people rallied together today to support striking teachers in Southampton.

Teachers, parents and supporters gathered at the Guildhall Square on Thursday morning to protest against "unfair" pay and low funding for schools.

Campaigners marched through the city centre holding signs and banners.

They headed to Palmerston Park where speeches were made.

The walkout, by members of the National Education Union (NEU), meant several schools in Southampton and elsewhere were forced to shut, either to all pupils or a large number.

Daily Echo: Teachers striking at Palmerston ParkTeachers striking at Palmerston Park (Image: Jose Ramos, Daily Echo)

Teachers say their pay has dropped by 20 per cent in real terms since 2010.

However, they also point to many other problems affecting the profession.

Tanners Brook Primary School teacher, Penny Burnett, was among the people striking yesterday.

Penny, who has worked at the school in Elmes Drive, Millbrook, for around seven years, said teachers were "very angry" at the current state of education.

She told the Daily Echo: "We're striking for two reasons.

"Teachers' pay has been eroded since 2010, to the point now we are working a day a week for free.

"Teachers are leaving the profession in boats so there is a real problem with teachers shortages and retaining staff in this profession.

"This is hugely impacting our schools.

"As well as that, schools have been so underfunded for such a long time.

"School budgets are stretched to their absolute limits.

"Teachers are feeling very angry at the response from the government."

She added: "We need a fully funded pay rise, that is the crux of it all."

The Government offered teachers a £1,000 one-off payment for the current school year and an average 4.5 per cent pay rise for staff next year.

However, four education unions, the NEU, the NASUWT teaching union, the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) and the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), have rejected the pay offer.

Another walkout is planned for Tuesday, May 2.

The NEU is expected to announce three more strikes during the summer term.