Bill will focus on this "organising culture" throughout his time as a
National Officer.We need Professional and Union strength
and confident members in every school ...
We need an "ORGANISING CULTURE"
Let’s stop just complaining! We need to revitalise & regenerate our NUT – to be based firmly on members’ views and priorities
Every development in educational policy gives more authority to "the school" – ie Headteachers and Governors, and less to LEAs. We need to make sure our school organisation is up to it…
Bill says, "We need every member, every group of members and every NUT School Rep to feel strong and confident in themselves and in the support they can get from the Union locally, regionally and nationally."
So the Union needs to change, and is now changing with the turning point election of Steve Sinnott, our new General Secretary. We’re beginning to develop an "organising culture".
Bill worked hard for that change, and has argued for it for a long time. (see "published articles"). He worked hard for Steve’s election too – and now looks forward to working closely with him and with Christine Blower the new Deputy General Secretary.
An "organising culture" means we need to…
Examine all our ways of working and change them
Develop 21st Century democratic consultative and decision-making processes – not just ‘clubby’ meetings and often inaccessible conferences!
Direct our huge Union resources to directly supporting Local Officers and School Reps. This is currently the work of the Union 'Task Group' that Bill helped to initiate, and of which he is an elected Executive member
Raise the status of the Union in schools, and develop strength through confidence and collectivity. No more bullying or ‘divide & rule’!
Get Headteacher support for regular Union meetings in the school cycle
Make sure Headteachers meet with our NUT School Reps (and the other union reps) and act on issues brought to them
Keep people up to date through accessible Union briefings and training built into the school day
Secure proper time off for union activity for all members
Secure the time for NUT School Reps to carry out their role
Don’t let anyone tell you this is "pie in the sky" – it’s already being achieved in some areas and schools
Bill will focus on this "organising culture" throughout his time as a
National Officer.