Staff from St Francis College, and St Joseph's Primary Schools in Leeton and Narrandera attended an Independent Education Union meeting as part of the strike after it was announced a new planning system would pay teachers according to standards and not just years of service.

The proposed enterprise agreement for NSW Catholic schools would replace an existing 13-step salary model with a system based on national standards.

However, teachers are concerned this will mean a reduction in pay and a heavier workload for less income.

In a letter to parents, IEU general secretary John Quessy said the situation was not occurring in government or independent schools.

"The union considers this misguided agenda by some Catholic employers to change school structures and staff conditions, abolish promotions positions and reduce staff rates of pay is unacceptable in any diocese," he said.

Mr Quessy's sentiments were echoed at the meeting on Tuesday, with IEU representative Colleen Hinder encouraging staff to get the message out to the community.

"The badges you are wearing today should now be worn at all times, so if someone asks why you are wearing it, you can take the opportunity to explain this situation," she said.

"We've taken a stand and said we are insulted by these conditions.

"It's about getting the word out.

"This won't just affect teachers, but students as well.

"We're delighted with the roll up here and the support behind what we are trying to achieve."

Under the proposed system, teachers would be paid as either a graduate, proficient, highly accomplished or lead teacher.

Teachers in their final year of university would be classified as pre-graduate.

Minimal supervision was provided at the affected schools on Tuesday, with classes returning to normal at 11.30am.