Steve in full flight in the thick of debate at the most recent Education International Congress

Steve Sinnott

1951 – 2008

A great teacher, great trade unionist and a great mate

 

 

It's difficult to know where to start. Steve was just a great person - a great teacher, a great trade unionist  and a great mate.

 

He inspired everyone with the interests of children and education at heart. His underlying love of humanity shone through even the most routine of discussions - and when he was in full flow, he burned with passion, conviction and determination.

 

His sense of internationalism and solidarity took the Union into new places, where we are able to speak up together with the most oppressed and disadvantaged at home and abroad, and they know that we are absolutely genuinely on their side.

 

Steve's leadership unified the Union, allowing us to work in new ways that really reflect our membership, overcoming any divisions to turn our fire in the right direction... and, when needed, Steve the careful diplomat could let fly in a way that made the enemies of education turn tail and run.

 

Steve's commitments - to state comprehensive education, to teachers, to active trade unionism and professional unity, to all children and in particular those from the toughest backgrounds, to human rights worldwide, to equalities and against all injustice - will live on and push us forward.

 

Steve was always prepared to stand up and be counted, to say what he thought and take responsibility as our General Secretary. But he had absolutely no pomposity or self-importance, and was never happier than when meeting with members in school or Union meetings, examining the Union view, arguing the toss - and always listening very carefully.

 

He was my General Secretary, my friend and comrade. The cruel blow of his death today has made this one of the worst days of my life. I can't tell you how much I miss him today, and I know I will go on missing him.

 

The expressions of genuine condolence from all quarters - from our own members and others in the world of education, from political figures including government ministers, from other trade unions, from community organisations, from our comrades in other countries - all show the high esteem in which Steve was held, and we are grateful for them.

 

We are all thinking of Mary and all the others of Steve's family of whom he was so proud... and all I can say to them is that we will all keep Steve in our hearts, and we'll do everything we can to live up to his fantastic example.

 

Steve, we loved you. Goodbye mate.

 

Bill

 

 

You can add your contribution to the Book of Condolences – either in person at NUT HQ, Hamilton House in London or online at www.teachers.org.uk

 

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