AS teachers prepared to take strike action today over pay and pensions, it looked like 'business as usual' for Alton schools.

The strike was backed by the National Union or Teachers and National Association of School­masters Union of Women Teachers, who are in dispute with the Government over workloads, plans to bring in performance-related pay and changes to pensions.

While primary and infant schools were not expected to be affected, some staff were due to take industrial action at Amery Hill School and Eggar's, as well as Alton College.

Amery Hill headteacher Stephen Crabtree said: "While some staff will be taking industrial action, the school will be open for business as usual on Thursday. We hope to minimise the disruption caused."

Eggar's made a similar statement.