Solwhit proved a tough nut to crack at the head of affairs and looked as though he would take the glory again before Hurricane Fly's late burst.

BBC: Hurricane Fly triumphs in Punchestown Champion Hurdle

"The NUT is right to identify that head teachers should have a clear policy on school discipline, and they are also right to be critical of independent appeals panels, " said Mr Hoban.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Education | Teachers call for behaviour pact

Other teachers' and head teachers' unions have backed the deal over workload, but the NUT says it is willing to stand alone.

BBC: Teachers told to stop blocking change