School principals have called on teachers and Government to resolve their differences because it is only the students who are suffering.

Several principals told The Royal Gazette that students were disappointed they were not able to take the Terra Nova standardised exams - which were scheduled to take place yesterday.

Students had been preparing for the exams for months and were ready and expecting to sit.

But teachers kicked off an industrial action in Government schools on Monday after months of failed pay talks.

Under the work-to-rule action, they are refusing to help with custodial duties such as conducting exams and supervising at lunches and recesses.

Freddie Evans, principal at Whitney Institute, said students had been practising for the tests since March.

The diagnostic tests are used to compare students and schools on the Island to each other and to their counterparts in the United States.

"The students were practising for the format, they were excited about taking the exams, doing them and getting them over with, and that's disheartening to hear," said Mr Evans.

"When you (change) the momentum for them, it's hard."

Mr. Evans said parents of Whitney students have been stepping in to help with general duties such as recess and lunch supervision.

"We're all in the same boat," he said. "We're all concerned about our students and the welfare of the school community. We're hoping this will be resolved as expediently as possible."

Carlos Simons, the deputy principal at Berkley Institute, said the school had "struggled" with supervising the Terra Nova tests but had managed to administer the exam to students.

He refused to comment any further when asked for details.

Mr. Simons, who is participating in the negotiations as a union member, said Government's pay offer was unacceptable.

"We're asking to be recognised on par with other Government professionals. The Ministry is offering something that is not acceptable," he said.

"It's amazing, given the challenges of the profession, that Government would make a proposal that is demoralising to teachers who play such a critical role."

Mr. Simons would not give specifics on Government's proposal but said the fully qualified and experienced high school teacher expects a pay level in the $60,000-$75,000 range.

Dr. Gina Tucker, the principal at Victor Scott Primary, said students there were also disappointed they were not able to take the Terra Nova tests.

She urged teachers to resolve the situation as soon as possible.

She also highlighted the importance of regular negotiation between Government and teachers.

"The parties need to get together and resolve this issue," she said. "We can assure parents that the education of students is continuing and their safety is not at risk. We can assure them that support is provided and the students will continue with their progress."

In 2002, teachers went on a strike and were then given an average seven percent pay hike.

But, the union had said, there was still some way to go until teachers got parity with other Government professionals.

Currently, a new teacher starts off on a salary of about $51,000 a year.