Council leaders have issued a scathing attack on the National Union of Teachers for its walkout over pay. The union was urged to ‘pause for thought' before rejecting the award of 2.45%. The LGA also highlighted that all other teaching unions were not striking, and the turnout was a mere 32%. Chairman of the National Employers' Organisation for School Teachers (NEOST), which represents children's services authorities and local education authorities in England and Wales, Cllr Ivan Ould, said: ‘It is disappointing for children and parents that the NUT has pressed ahead with strike action. The NUT should pause for thought before embarking on action that will affect large swathes of the country. The pay award was based on an independent body's recommendation and provides a deal that is both fair to teachers and affordable for the taxpayer.' Essex CC's education boss also attacked the decision. Cabinet member for children, schools and families, Cllr Simon Walsh, said: ‘It is worth noting that only a minority of the NUT's members actually voted in favour of this strike. I would, therefore, urge the NUT's leaders and members to think carefully before taking such drastic action.'