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Getting involved with the NUT

Abby Jordan teaches expressive arts (dance and drama) at Abbey Middle School in Bedford.

When I joined the NUT in 2011, my school didn’t have a rep. After discussions with the other members, I decided to take on the challenge and attended the level 1 reps’ training course, which made me certain I could carry out this role.

My role as NUT school rep has mainly involved passing on vital information from the NUT that members miss, for example not many of the staff were fully aware of the joint action that began in October. I see it as my job to ensure all members know what is going on and how it can support them in their teaching.

Dawn Whaley is a year 1 teacher at Hartside Primary School in Crook, Co Durham.

I am school rep, minuting secretary to division, and vice-president to my association and division in Durham. I am also on the NUT’s Early Years Foundation Stage Advisory Committee.

After doing an NUT CPD course at Stoke Rochford Hall, I decided I wanted to be more involved in the Union. I started to go to division and association meetings and found them really interesting. It was nice to be part of something bigger than my classroom.

As a rep, I’ve answered queries about the pensions campaigns and held a session to keep colleagues up to date. Members sometimes need someone to talk to – the role can be as simple as listening and reassuring. When issues come up that I feel are too delicate or complicated to deal with alone, I pass them on to our local team.

I get a lot of satisfaction out of my union work and am proud to be involved. Any time I give is always appreciated. I know my union will always be there for me, and I will always be there for my union. Anyone who is passionate about teaching should get more involved because they can further their professional development, and development within the union, have the opportunity to help and support others and make new friends.

Being involved with the NUT has been exciting and interesting over the last year. As well as the rep’s training course, I attended the young teachers’ weekend at Stoke Rochford Hall. This was a great way of meeting members and a nice break from a weekend of planning.

To anyone thinking of getting involved – do so, even if in a small way!

Watch our video…

… on why you should get involved at www.teachers.org.uk/getinvolved Sign up now at www.teachers.org.uk/join