ALL East Ayrshire's schools will close later this month as teachers go out on strike.

East Ayrshire Council announced today (November 15) that all schools will be closed on Thursday, November 24 due to strike action.

A nationwide ballot of teaching Trade Unions has resulted in an announcement of industrial action by the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) and the Association of Heads and Deputes in Scotland (AHDS), with the first day of industrial action taking place on this date.

All schools within East Ayrshire will be affected, however, at this stage, it is expected that all early childhood centres will operate as normal.

A letter has been issued to parents and carers by Linda McAulay-Griffiths, chief education officer and head of education, advising of the planned walkout.

The letter reads: "I am writing to you following a nationwide ballot of teaching trade unions which has resulted in an announcement of industrial action by the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) and the Association of Heads and Deputes in Scotland (AHDS), with the first date of industrial action being set as Thursday 24th November 2022.

"From the information provided to the council by the teaching trade unions, it is evident that it will not be possible for pupils to attend school on Thursday 24th November 2022.

"This will affect all schools in East Ayrshire Council. At this stage, we anticipate that all early childhood centres will operate as normal."

It adds: "We are working with colleagues on arrangements for those pupils who require access to a free school meal and you will be advised of this in due course.

"I am aware that this will cause an inconvenience to many families, but we cannot operate without the required number of teaching staff. I thank you for your understanding at this time."