UNISON represents more education staff than any other trade union in the UK. More than 350,000 members in education give us a powerful voice to campaign against inequalities, challenge unfair pay and speak out on work issues and the quality of public services.
School Buildings – Safety Concerns
Following years of capital funding cuts by this government, we are facing an unfolding crisis in school buildings safety. At the end of August 2023, the Department for Education (DfE) suddenly ordered over 100 schools, colleges and nurseries in England to close buildings just before the start of the new autumn term. This is due to […]
Academy schools
UNISON wants to see an integrated comprehensive education system. However, in recent years the government has been undermining schools linked to local authorities and focused on getting schools to convert to becoming academies. Several thousand former maintained schools have now become academies, including the majority of secondary schools. Whilst opposing the forced academy programme we […]
Cuts in education services
Funding cuts have led to courses being closed, redundancies in schools, colleges and universities and a worse education for children and young people.
UNISON wants to see proper resources for a world-class education system.
Pay in education
Education support staff in schools, universities and colleges have seen their living standards fall in recent years and many earn less than the living wage.
Privatisation and shared services
Shared services are when one or more employers set up new organisations to make service delivery cheaper. Often a new shared service will mean job losses, cuts in terms and conditions, and outsourcing. Find out what you can do if you are affected by shared service arrangements.