Recent events involving the National Education Union (NEU) have highlighted ongoing tensions in the UK education sector. A snap poll revealed that 95% of NEU members support a 5.5% pay rise, following months of industrial action aimed at addressing pay disparities. This comes amid concerns about low morale among educators, with NEU leader Daniel Kebede urging Labour leader Keir Starmer to adopt more radical policies to support teachers. Additionally, the tragic suicide of headteacher Ruth Perry, following a school downgrade, has prompted an investigation into the pressures faced by school leaders.
The National Education Union is a prominent trade union in the United Kingdom, representing school teachers, further education lecturers, education support staff, and teaching assistants. Formed in 2017 through the merger of the National Union of Teachers and the Association of Teachers and Lecturers, the NEU advocates for the rights and interests of its members. It plays a crucial role in negotiating pay, working conditions, and educational policies, striving to improve the overall quality of education in the UK.
-
A national survey reveals that nearly all schools in England have implemented bans on mobile phone use during school hours. The National Education Union's leader advocates for a statutory ban, citing concerns over online harm and its impact on students' wellbeing. The debate on mobile phone regulations intensifies as the NEU prepares for its annual conference.
-
Nigel Farage's Reform UK party is positioning itself as a serious contender against Labour in the upcoming local elections, claiming to represent working-class interests. Farage's recent speeches emphasize nationalization of industries and support for trade unions, despite past contradictions. The local elections on May 1 will be a critical test for Reform's strategy.
-
Michael Gove has been awarded a peerage by Rishi Sunak in a resignation honours list, sparking backlash from opposition parties. Critics label the list an 'ID parade of political flunkies,' highlighting Gove's controversial legacy in education and politics. Other notable recipients include former ministers and allies of Sunak.
-
Two major teaching unions in England, the NASUWT and NEU, are poised to strike if the government fails to fully fund next year's teachers' pay award. Both unions have rejected the government's proposed 2.8% pay rise, deeming it inadequate and unfunded, which could lead to significant school closures in the autumn.
-
A recent NASUWT survey reveals that 59% of UK teachers believe social media, particularly influencers like Andrew Tate, is contributing to declining student behavior. The findings, presented at the NASUWT annual conference, highlight alarming levels of misogyny and violence against teachers, prompting calls for stronger government intervention and support for educators.
-
The UK government faces mounting pressure as independent pay review bodies recommend higher pay rises for teachers and NHS staff than budgeted. Unions warn that failure to fully fund these increases could lead to strikes, exacerbating existing recruitment and retention crises in both sectors. The situation remains tense as negotiations continue.
-
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has indicated that the Labour government may end the two-child benefit limit, aiming to reduce child poverty. This comes amid ongoing discussions about special educational needs support and mental health initiatives in schools, with critics warning of funding cuts impacting vulnerable children.
-
The UK government plans to expand free school meals eligibility to all children in households receiving Universal Credit starting September 2026. This initiative aims to support over 500,000 children and alleviate child hunger amid rising living costs. The Education Policy Institute calls for a national auto-enrolment system to ensure all eligible families are registered.