NASUWT general secretary to step down

^{Image credit: NASUWT.}

Dr Patrick Roach, general secretary of NASUWT, has announced he is stepping down from the position.

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."

He said it had been "the privilege of [his] working life". 

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 Patrick 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.”