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EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

Working for a fairer future

The NUT is proud of the policies, campaigns and resources it has developed to increase fair treatment for all teachers. Here, NUT equality officer Rosamund McNeil explains why this work is so important and how all teachers can make a difference on issues of fairness in schools.

Many teachers contact the NUT each month to ask about issues of fairness at work. Among the most common questions are:
How can I request flexible working patterns from my employer?
Do I have the right to ask for a part-time contract on returning from maternity leave?
Because of a diagnosis of cancer, I need adjustments to my workplace. Where can I turn for information?
How and when should I tell my colleagues and students that I am gay?
Where can I find information about anti-racism and anti-sexism curriculum initiatives and resources for the classroom?

At a networking event held earlier this year, NUT equality officers were asked what the role meant to them. Kiri Tunks of east London said:

“The NUT was formed on the principle of equality and I’ve always been drawn to that. We all bring something different to the group and equality work makes sure that we can all contribute.”

Standing together

Individual members receive support from the NUT every day on these issues. Also, by talking together in various forums – either on the Hearth local officers’ website or at local meetings or national events – teachers gain support and encouragement from each other.

By working together teachers can:
develop whole school equality policies for their school
develop strategies to challenge language, behaviour and attitudes that are sexist, disablist, homophobic or racist.

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