General Secretary of NASUWT-The Teachers' Union, Dr
Patrick Roach, has today announced he will not be
seeking a further term as General Secretary.
Dr Roach told members, staff and activists that the election of a
new UK Government would give his successor the opportunity to
“make their mark” and new opportunities lay ahead for the Union
to secure a New Deal for Teachers and achieve its mission of
putting teachers first.
He said: “Trade union legislation requires the NASUWT to elect
the General Secretary every five years. That time has now come,
and I am today announcing my decision to not seek re-election as
General Secretary.
“The last 15 years witnessed one of the most difficult and
turbulent periods for the teaching profession, but, throughout,
we have continued to deliver support, protection and a stronger
voice for our members at work. Now, new opportunities lie ahead
to secure a New Deal for Teachers and our mission of putting
teachers first.
“It has been the privilege of my working life to serve as General
Secretary, and before that as Deputy General Secretary and
Assistant General Secretary of the best and only teachers' union
– the NASUWT. My sincere thanks go to all activists, members and
staff for their support, dedication and contribution to our great
Union.”
NASUWT National President Rashida Din said:
“After 15 years as both NASUWT general secretary and deputy
general secretary and many years as a diligent and outstanding
member of staff, Patrick has decided now is the time to step down
from his role as a champion of the teaching profession.
“He will be sorely missed within the NASUWT family and beyond,
both within the UK and international trade union movement and
across the education sector.
“Patrick has not only been a staunch defender of working rights
for teachers but his campaigning against all forms of
discrimination and injustice also deserves wide recognition.
“As chair of the TUC's Anti-Racism Taskforce, he has been
instrumental in leading the trade union movement's fight against
racism at work.
“These are big shoes to fill and on behalf of the Union I wish
Patrick the very best in whatever role or not he decides to take
on after his term as general secretary ends.
“The process of electing Patrick's successor has started but
until then he will continue to fulfil his role in standing up for
the profession, negotiating on behalf of members and continuing
to secure a New Deal for Teachers across the UK.”
A process for electing a new General Secretary will now begin:
October
2024 Advert
published and applications invited for the post
17 March
2025
Nominations close
A ballot of NASUWT members will take place in the event there is
more than one nominee in compliance with the Union's Rules.
