Striking teachers have said they are struggling to pay the bills as they join picket lines across the country in a battle for fair pay.
Members from the National Education Union (NEU) have walked out today with 23,400 schools set to be affected. It has been left up to headteachers to decide if schools should remain open.
"Long hours and poor pay are the main reasons teachers are leaving the profession in their droves," the NEU said as some teachers have accused the government of "taking advantage" of their dedication.