THE change of leadership at NASUWT teaching union presents a “unique opportunity” to work towards creating a single education union in Britain, moved National Education Union (NEU) delegates today.

A motion calling on the NEU to redouble its efforts to seek further amalgamations with the aim of creating “one union for education workers” was passed on the last day of NEU’s annual conference.

Delegates appealed to Matt Wrack, the former Fire Brigades Union general secretary who is the recommendation of the NASUWT executive to be that union’s next leader.

North Yorkshire delegate Gary McVeigh-Kaye said: “I want to send a comradely message today to Matt Wrack. 

“I have always held firefighters [in] the highest esteem — they are genuine heroes because their bravery cannot afford any bounds.

“So Matt, if you are listening, bring your bravery to the education sector, let’s climb that ladder together, let’s reach out a helping hand.”

Portsmouth delegate Charlotte Amy Lawrence said: “With the upcoming change of leadership at NASUWT, we have a unique opportunity to redouble our efforts to reignite change, rebuild relationships and work towards a truly sector-wide education union.

“Education in this country is in crisis and even with a Labour government sadly many challenges remain— we need a strong and unified workforce, ready to respond, resist and rebuild.”

The motion’s text called for the NEU to commission a “rigorous evaluation of the process and outcomes of the ATL-NUT amalgamation” that formed the union.