Skip to main content
The NEU shows what a fighting union looks like
When teaching trade unionists realised that the government was ignoring the advice of its own scientific advisers, they stepped up to defend pupils, staff and communities, says ROBERT POOLE
Virus cleaner school

THE latest U-turn — I’ve lost track of how many we’ve had now — sees primary schools switching to remote learning. 

This dramatic about-face comes only a day after the government refused to heed the calls of scientific advisers, doctors and teachers. 

This victory should be laid at the feet of brave National Education Union trade unionists who made the decision to refuse to attend unsafe workplaces on Monday morning.

Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
More from this author
TEACHERS STAND TALL: Members of the NEU make a clear show of
Features / 14 April 2025
14 April 2025
The NEU’s annual conference promises heated debate, with motions on international politics, curriculum reform and union amalgamation likely to provoke strong reactions and challenge the status quo, writes Education for Tomorrow editor ROBERT POOLE
ELITE ENDORSEMENT: Keir Starmer hosts Adolescence writer Jac
Features / 9 April 2025
9 April 2025
The series unveils uncomfortable truths about youth alienation and online radicalisation — but the real crisis lies in austerity and the absence of class consciousness in addressing young people’s disillusionment, says teacher ROBERT POOLE
CRUCIAL HISTORY: (Clockwise from left) A silent crowd follow
Features / 17 March 2025
17 March 2025
From colonialism to the Troubles, the story of England’s first colony is one of exploitation, resistance, and solidarity — and one we should fight to ensure is told, writes teacher ROBERT POOLE
CONSERVATIVE POSTER CHILD: School head Katharine Birbalsingh
Features / 10 March 2025
10 March 2025
As the government moves to rein in academy freedoms, former darling of conservative education reform Katharine Birbalsingh cries ‘Marxism.’ Education columnist ROBERT POOLE examines how academisation has failed our children while enriching executives and empowering ideologues at the expense of democratic accountability
Similar stories
Michael Gove speaking outside BBC Broadcasting House in Lond
Britain / 18 August 2024
18 August 2024
protest
Opinion / 3 July 2024
3 July 2024
ROBERT POOLE dissects Labour’s plans around education