A SOUTHAMPTON school will close its doors on the day teachers go on strike next month.

The industrial action by members of the National Education Union (NEU) will take place in February and March. 

A "high" number of staff from Regents Park Community College will walk out in a dispute over pay and funding cuts, resulting in the school having to close on February 1.

READ MORE: Will schools close as teachers vote to strike?

In a letter to parents, headteacher, Samantha Barnes, wrote: "The action (a series of one-day strikes) is not against the school itself but is part of industrial action organised by the union. 

"We have a high number of staff taking action therefore it will not be possible to open the school to students on February 1. 

"We will continue to update you with news via the school's website and by letter." 

Confirmation for each strike day will be communicated nearer the time, the letter said.

The decision of whether to close will be based on the safety and well-being of students.

Vulnerable students will still be able to go to college and have study spaces.

Packed lunches will also be available for collection from the canteen from 12.30pm to 1pm. 

A spokesperson for the union said: "We have continually raised our concerns with successive education secretaries about teacher and support staff pay and its funding in schools and colleges, but instead of seeking to resolve the issue, they have sat on their hands.

"It is disappointing that the government prefers to talk about yet more draconian anti-strike legislation rather than work with us to address the causes of strike action."

Union members are expected to strike on February 1 and on March 2, 15, and 16.

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