PGCE student confused about which teaching union

[HauntedLittleLunatic]

I am a PGCE student expecting to obtain QTS at the end of November (I had to take a break at easter so just have a few weeks practice to complete).

Up until now, as a student teacher I am in all of the main 4 unions. Just to get the freebies.

I know all of the unions provide legal cover. But I don't know much else about them and I haven't really had time to read up about the differences and benefits between them.

So...what do I need to know to decide which union to subscribe to once I qualify. What should I consider? what benefits do they offer etc.

I will be secondary if that matters.

Do you have a job yet? Most people go with the union the majority of staff at their school belong to. That said, NUT and NASUWT are working together at the moment anyway - think vast majority belong to them.

Have a feeling you don't pay subs as an NQT anyway - might be worth checking.

It varies. I think for some I pay a pound. For some its free....

Another thread got me thining though...unions are different, offer different things and have a different ethos... should give it more thought but was hoping someone could tell me in a nutshell whats good about each one...

HLL - have you seen there is a new staffroom topic - I think for us teacher types! Exciting!

About the unions - I finished my PGCE in July and haven't got a permanent job yet. Everyone tells me to wait and go for the one that most people in the school belong to. I reckon that makes sense, as they are most likely to have a decent union rep in the event that you need help.

I agree with aview. One thing about being part of a union, is getting support with any issues that might arise in your school. This is much easier if there are a significant group of you, and even better if you have a keen union rep. I'd definitely wait until you have a job and then see what other members of staff are in.

It's here. I started an introduction thread.

Most in my school are either ATL or NASUWT. Of these, NASUWT is generally the more 'militant' and members will often vote for industrial action in a dispute. I think ATL went on strike last year for the first time in decades. I am NASUWT. If you're uncomfortable with strike action, for example, avoid NASUWT.

Having said that, the NUT striked struck went on strike last year when the NASUWT didn't.

If NQT subs are only a pound, I would join all of them until you know where you'll be teaching.

Themumsnot, I saw the staffroom topic! I asked MNHQ for it (under a different name I think) after the whole English debacle, will come over now and bagsy my seat.

ATL - won't tell you to strike, but only recommend. Mostly secondary teachers. Allows cover supervisors and TA's to join. Runs some good CPD courses. Member of the TUC (didn't used to be)

NUT - arguably the biggest union - strongest in primary schools. Member of the TUC, and historically one of the more militant unions. Only allows teachers to be members. Has some excellent CPD courses, especially for new teachers. Often cheap/free!

NASUWT - stronger on secondary. I think it allows TA's to be members. I don't know what CPD is on offer. Historically quite militant. Member of the TUC.

Voice - allows TA's to join. Won't go on strike. Too small to offer worthwhile CPD. Not a member of the TUC

Having said all that, the "best" union depends on your school, it is often an advantage to be in the main union in your school - or the one whose rep you like the best. And remember, you can always change you union if you think a different rep would represent you better....

Perfect donki. Exactly what I was looking for.

Still don't know which go chose thoo...