UK (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Matt Wrack’s nomination as the next NASUWT general secretary has raised concerns among ministers, citing his lack of teaching experience and controversial past.
As reported by The Guardian, ministers have raised voices over the teaching union’s decision to nominate Matt Wrack as its new general secretary. Opponents highlighted his absence of teaching credentials and his departure from the established views of union members.
What did ministers say about Matt Wrack’s NASUWT nomination?
A Whitehall source stated, ministers had
“expressed surprise that the teaching union was looking for someone with no teaching experience and an overly combative approach to industrial relations, taking the union away from the mainstream views of the school workforce”.
What did the Partnership for Jewish Schools say about Matt Wrack’s proposed leadership?
A representative from the Partnership for Jewish Schools raised concerns about Matt Wrack’s potential appointment.
They stated,
“Education is at the forefront of building our society, and it is essential that those who take the helm are beyond reproach and demonstrate a balanced and sensible approach to all constituents. At a time when we are witnessing a troubling increase in antisemitism, including within educational establishments, to appoint somebody who appears to be insensitive to these concerns would be deeply troubling.”
The spokesperson added,
“The many Jewish members of the NASUWT are likely to find this appointment particularly challenging. Educational unions must represent the interests of all members without prejudice or bias. We urge reconsideration of this appointment to ensure that NASUWT leadership is seen to stand firmly against all forms of discrimination, including antisemitism.”
Why is Matt Wrack facing criticism over the NASUWT appointment?
Matt Wrack, who was defeated in his re-election bid as the FBU general secretary in January. He would make history as the first NASUWT leader without formal teaching qualifications. This has raised concerns over his suitability for the role.
Mr Wrack has ties to left-wing groups aligned with the Labour Party, including his leadership role in the Labour Representation Committee. He is considered by some as unfit for NASUWT.
He has faced backlash from Jewish teachers due to his association with Jeremy Corbyn. This is due to his reported dismissiveness toward the antisemitism controversy that shook the Labour Party during Corbyn’s leadership of Islington North MP.
How Matt Wrack secured endorsement for NASUWT leadership?
Wrack held the position of FBU general secretary for 20 years before being defeated in a tough election contest.
He applied for the NASUWT leadership and, after interviews with the applicants, received the union’s executive committee’s endorsement as their top pick.
As per the union’s rules, he will take up the general secretary position during the Easter annual meeting, unless a rival candidate gathers sufficient support to initiate an election.
Luke Akhurst seeks to challenge Wrack for NASUWT leadership
Leicester teacher Luke Akhurst plans to gather the necessary 25 branch endorsements to trigger an election against Wrack. Speaking to Schools Week, he insisted the NASUWT should be led by a teaching professional.
NASUWT rules limit Akhurst’s chances against Wrack
Union insiders suggest Akhurst is struggling because he’s not allowed to ask for support, which makes it hard for him to get nominated.
Although Akhurst was permitted to state branch secretaries, restrictions prevent him from directly engaging with members or campaigning for endorsements.
Members fear Wrack’s support for the NEU merger
Some activists raised concerns that Wrack could favor merging with the NEU, a proposal pursued by advocates of “professional unity” within both unions. However, Akhurst has made it clear that he would oppose any merger.
Did Matt Wrack downplay antisemitism claims?
After Corbyn’s election in 2015, Wrack guided the FBU in re-affiliating with the Labour Party.
According to Jewish leaders, Wrack dismissed the antisemitism controversy within the Labour Party, describing it as a “so-called furore” designed to discredit Corbyn’s leadership.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission report found that the Labour Party failed to adequately address antisemitism, with some actions perceived as acceptance of the issue.
How did Marc Levy respond to antisemitism in schools?
Marc Levy, the chief executive of the Jewish representative council of Greater Manchester and the region, stated,
“There have been numerous instances of Jewish teachers being targeted by egregious cases of antisemitism in schools across the country. During this time, they are entitled to expect support from their trade union.”
Key details about the NASUWT
- Established: 1919
- Headquarters: Rednal, Birmingham, England, UK
- Membership: Over 300,000 teachers and education professionals
- Representation: Represents teachers in primary, secondary, and special education across Britain
- Focus Areas:
- Teachers’ pay and working conditions
- Education policy and reforms
- Workplace rights and equality
- Health and safety in schools
- Affiliation: Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Education International (EI) global federation
- Notable Campaigns:
- Opposing excessive teacher workload
- Fighting for fair pay and pensions
- Advocating against school funding cuts