More than 25 schools across Dorset are expected to be affected by strike action today as teachers walk out for the second time this year.

It was due to be confirmed today how many schools would close - or partially close - as a result of the action.

The strikes are over a dispute with the UK government over pay and working conditions.

Teachers who are members of the National Education Union (NEU) will once again be taking industrial action today, after striking initially on January 31.

It is the second day of strike action set to take place, with a further two-day national strike due to take place on Wednesday, March 15 and Thursday, March 16, when teachers from across the country will attend a mass rally in London.

A demonstration will also be taking place at Dorchester Town Hall at 12pm before a rally in South Street.

NEU Dorset President Mark Chutter said ahead of the strike: "I think that this strike is key, the Government haven't budged.

"We need solidarity amongst members and teachers, we are fighting together for improvement in pay, in conditions and in workload."

Paul Eaton, Dorset NEU District Secretary, said: "More schools will be taking action this time around, at least 25 schools are having strike action, picket lines or partial closures.

"We will definitely see more schools taking action today and we expect even more on March 15 when many of us will be heading up to London on budget day.

"We are not trying to preach to the converted, we just want people to hear about the real issues in education and the real challenges teachers are facing these days."

Ahead of strike action, Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said: "As a government, we have made a serious offer to the leaders of the National Education Union and Royal College of Nursing: pause this week’s strikes, get round the table and talk about pay, conditions and reforms.

"It is hugely disappointing the NEU has thus far refused this serious offer and has not joined the Royal College of Nurses in calling off strikes. Instead of sitting round a table discussing pay, the NEU will once again cause disruption for children and families in the South West.

"Children deserve to be in school, and further strike action is simply unforgivable, especially after everything children have been through because of the pandemic."

NEU Dorset has said picket lines will be at various schools across the county including Wey Valley Academy and Shaftesbury School.

Another school set to be affected by the strikes is The Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester.

In a letter to parents/ carers, headteacher Nick Rutherford said: "As previously, the school will prioritise vulnerable pupils and the children of critical workers.

"We apologise for the inconvenience this may mean to you and your child's education, and we hope the dispute can be resolved as soon as possible."

The Echo will have live coverage throughout the day with an updated list of all the schools that are closed in the wake of the strike action.