Which union?

[Fuzzy1bear]

I am returning to teaching in September after a couple of years off with my children. I used to be in the NUT and luckily never needed to use them. I joined as a student and never changed.
Which union are you with, what are the pros or cons? I’m just trying to decide whether to go back to the NUT/NEU or try the NASWT who are offering your first year free.

[FourEyesGood]

I used to with the NUT, but the vast majority of my current colleagues are in the NASUWT, so I switched. I really believe it helps to be with whichever union has the strongest voice (and most effective rep) at your school. Our NUT rep didn’t want the role; the NASUWT rep does a brilliant job and gives it everything he can.

[kbb23]

How do u find out who your union reps are

[FourEyesGood]

If you ask any member of staff, they’ll almost certainly be able to tell you. If your school has no rep, that’s a problem (you could become one!).

[Fuzzy1bear]

Thanks, I hadn’t thought about that! I’m in for a day after the holidays so I’ll ask.

[KyloRenaissance]

I'm in NEU but there isn't a rep at my school, so my NASWUT rep is who I go to for union advice within school.

[Rainuntilseptember15]

Kylo are those separate unions? Not in England so not 100% but I think they are different - in which case how can you ask the rep to give their time to help you?

[KyloRenaissance]

You can ask if the rep will help if your union has no rep at our place.

They don't have to, though (afaik). And I am getting advice from my union as well to make sure everyone is in the loop.

[Rainuntilseptember15]

Thanks. Maybe they have some kind of arrangement? Where I am I’d give friendly advice but ultimately if someone isn’t a paid member wouldn’t be expected to advise them (and it’s a voluntary role for most reps so doing it in own time). But of course you can always access the regional support.

[Foxsox]

Find out the majority union in you school
And go with that one
That was the advice given to me an a NQT
Most of our staff are NEU