YOUR VOICE BUBBLES AND BLENDING - We hear your stories about working in a pandemic, and look ahead to the new term - Voice the union
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YOUR
VOICE
No. 50 AUGUST 2020 £2.00
BUBBLES AND BLENDING
We hear your stories about working in a pandemic,
and look ahead to the new term
Next
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VOICE VOICE
CONTENTS UPDATE
1 Voice Update: COVID-19
COVID-19
2-3 Voice News
Voice Referrals Staying safe
4 General Secretary’s voice
at work
Produced in conjunction with Community,
5 Voice President Joy Rowley our new booklet is designed to help
members and employers understand
6 Voice Focus: Giving young how to work safely during the COVID-19
pandemic. We hope it gives you a practical
members a voice
framework to think about:
www.voicetheunion.org.uk/staying-safe
7 Voice Rewards
Webinar: Safety at Work: How Unions Can Help
8-9 COVID-19 Survey results
In June, Chris Burns, Senior Professional Officer at Voice, and Jennifer Dean,
Education Officer at Community, hosted a training webinar looking at:
10 Pattinson & Brewer Legal
Advertorial > working and returning to work safely following lockdown;
> how to address the risks you face;
11-13 Voice Focus: Racism and
Discrimination > where to get support and advice; and
> how your trade union can help.
14-16 Student Focus
Watch the webinar: www.voicetheunion.org.uk/webinar-safety
17 Early Years: Reopening
18 FHE: Reopening FHE
19 Latest Teachers’ Pay &
Conditions (England) CORONAVIRUS and ask for the duty officer:
www.voicetheunion.org.uk/contact-
Pensions (UK)
UPDATE us. You can also contact us there if you
have an enquiry about membership
20-21 Wales: News & updates subscriptions or updating your details.
Coronavirus resources & (Direct messages sent via Facebook,
22-24 Scotland: News & updates information including out of office hours, may not be
We continue to provide regular news seen until the next working day.)
25 Northern Ireland updates on our website and social media
that we hope will assist you and keep Video message from the
26 MA SEN Show London you informed. See www.voicetheunion. General Secretary – Thank you,
org.uk for resources including: you’re appreciated!
> the latest information and Check out the message on
government guidance from across YouTube (www.youtube.com/
the UK (www.voicetheunion.org.uk/ watch?v=VLzfklkab2c) or via the
coronavirus); and website (www.voicetheunion.org.
uk/help-and-advice/coronavirus-
> your FAQs). covid-19).
Published by: Voice, 2 St. James’ Court, Friar Gate,
You can also follow Voice on Facebook
Derby, DE1 1BT, tel: 01332 372337
www.voicetheunion.org.uk/your-voice
(www.facebook.com/Voicetheunion)
email: pressoffice@voicetheunion.org.uk. and Twitter (@Voicetheunion,
@VoiceCymru, @VoiceScotland) for
Editorial Board: Richard Fraser (Editor), Dougie Atkinson,
Sue Cornish, Deborah Lawson, Catherine Scrivens, Steve
news, shared content and resources.
Straw (Design), Elizabeth Williams and Jack Wholey.
We welcome comments and messages
Contributors: Dougie Atkinson, Sue Cornish, Nadia Foster, on our social media about our online
Richard Fraser, Martin Hodge, Rob Jaques, Yvonne Johns,
information, shared content and current
Kaisra Khan, Deborah Lawson, Cameron Mitchell, Dr John
Mitchell, Parliament Hill, Val Ross, Joy Rowley, Janine
issues. However, if you need advice
Sansom, Catherine Scrivens, Jack Wholey, Elizabeth or support with a workplace issue, we
Williams and Chris Wilson. cannot do this via Facebook or Twitter,
ISSN2632-7570 © VOICE 2020 so please contact us
Next
1
VOiCe
NEWS
SGM Result majority [previously ‘a majority of at
least three-quarters’] of the votes cast
or by proxy at any general meeting of
which at least one month’s notice has
Correction at a meeting of the Council where such
a discussion is proposed, nor may it
been given specifying the intention to
propose such amendment.
delegate to any other committee or
Following our SGM on 28 March to any individual the power to discuss
2020, an error was made in the the amalgamation or dissolution of the Rule 74e 247 for 108 against
communication of the outcome of Union. [Not passed as Rule 74c above
the ballot and the rule changes that prevents the change.]
Rule 57i 294 for 57 against
were passed. Subject to Rule 19 and those Rules
Passed
W
contained within the Appendices may
e had notified members that
be amended either as permitted above
the rule changes put to the Add: In compliance with statutory
or by a simple majority [previously
ballot on 28 March 2020 had provisions, to ballot members in
‘two-thirds’] of the votes cast at a
all been successful save for Rule 74 relation to any amalgamation or
meeting of the Council of which notice
c. This was incorrect. Rules 74 d and e, dissolution of the Union.
has been given specifying the intention
by virtue of the fact that 74 c did not
Rule 74c 245 for 109 against to propose such amendment.
get a 75% majority in favour, could not
be changed, despite both having a two- [Not passed as three-quarters Rule 76a 278 for 83 against
thirds majority. The error appears to majority required.] Passed
have arisen by taking the subsections
independently without reference back Rules 4, 5, and 6, [Rules about members The Union may be amalgamated with
to rule 74c. protecting/promoting education; another trade union only as a result of a
industrial action, and Council voting on ballot to that effect held in compliance
Additionally Rule 6 could not be changed amalgamation or dissolution] and this with current legislation. [Previously
because it required a 75% majority, Rule, [about amending the Rules] are ‘under current legislation, permission
which it did not achieve. fundamental and shall not be amended to hold such a ballot having been given
or rescinded except by a resolution by at least three-quarters of the votes
The error was unfortunate, but no carried by a simple majority [previously cast at a Special General Meeting of
actions have been taken by the union ‘three-quarters’] of the votes cast at which notice has been given specifying
because of the error and no rules have a Special General Meeting of which the intention to propose the holding of
been breached. Please see below notice has been given specifying the such a meeting’.]
the correct result of the rule changes intention to propose such amendment
proposed at the SGM on 28 March 2020: or rescission. Rule 76b 241 for 112 against
Passed
Rule 74d 247 for 110 against
Rule 6 245 for 110 against Subject to current legislation, there shall
[Not passed as Rule 74c above
[Not passed as three-quarters be a requirement of a simple majority
prevents the change.]
majority required.] [previously ‘at least three-quarters’] of
Subject to Rules 19 [about country the votes cast in such a ballot.
The Council (as defined in Rule 7) may sections] and 74, these Rules may be
not instigate discussion about the amended by a resolution carried by www.voicetheunion.org.uk/
amalgamation or dissolution of the a simple majority [previously ‘three- about-us/rules
Union without the consent of a simple quarters’] of the votes cast in person
Events & EXHIBITIONS Calendar 2020-21
: date to be
advised Friday 6 to Saturday 7 November
Childcare Expo Manchester
Voice Conference 2020 EventCity, Manchester
Clayton Hotel Chiswick,
London
Friday 20 to Saturday 21 November
Friday 25 to Saturday 26 September Childcare Expo London, Olympia, London
Childcare Expo Midlands
Ricoh Arena Friday 8 January to Saturday 9 January 2021
Coventry tes SEN Show, Business Design Centre, London
www.voicetheunion.org.uk/events
2 Back
voice
NEWS
COMMITTEE ELECTIONS UPDATE Transfer ballot
At the close of nominations on 3 June Scotland Executive Committee A ballot on the proposed transfer of Voice
2020, the following were elected: (SEC) to Community opened on Wednesday 1
July 2020 and closes on Friday 31 July.
Caroline McDonald
Northern Ireland Executive Allana Hannah Civica Election Services (formerly ERS)
Committee (NIEC) Allan Paterson is the independent balloting service
Jon McMurray conducting the ballot.
Sheelagh Carville-McGiven Sue Cornish
Julian King Acting Returning Officer The result will be published on the Voice
Tommy Scott website on or after 3 August.
Noel Purdy suecornish@voicetheunion.org.uk
Further updates will be communicated to
Sandra Wilson
members by email and in the October Your
Chris Wilson FINANCIAL STATEMENT Voice.
Wales Executive Committee (WEC)
The annual Financial Statement can be www.voicetheunion.org.uk/
Nick Griffin found at: www.voicetheunion.org.uk/
Melynda Standring transfer-2020
statement-members
AGM 2020 Further information is available on request. (See also the
General Secretary’s Annual Report on page 4.)
The 2020 Annual General Meeting of Voice took place virtually by
zoom on Saturday 20 June 2020. Yvonne Johns
Honorary Secretary
There were no constitutional changes proposed at this AGM. yvonnejohns@voiceactivists.org.uk
Voice Referrals
Voice understands just how valuable your
recommendation can be in helping someone make
the choice to join Voice.
We’re offering you a £5 M&S gift card as our thank
you every time you support Voice by securing a new
member to join*. We’re even on hand to support your
efforts by supplying you with leaflets and freebies
that you can use to highlight why Voice is right to
support colleagues throughout their career.
* See website for full terms and condition for Voice
Referrals www.voicetheunion.org.uk/referrals
Find out more at:
www.voicetheunion.org.uk/referrals
and start referring your friends and colleagues to join Voice. 5
Back
GENERAL
SECRETARY’S VOICE
ANNUAL REPORT
2020
From the 2020 AGM Report
By Deborah Lawson, General Secretary
(deborahlawson@voicetheunion.org.uk)
Representing members
As we all learn to live and work within
the restrictions imposed by COVID-19,
the work of our members continues, and
therefore so does the work of Voice,
albeit somewhat differently since March.
In terms of the level of casework and
representation by Professional and
Regional Officers and Field Officers,
absence management, sickness and
return to work cases have increased. This,
along with the results of Voice’s annual
stress survey, again raises concern about
the health of our professional workforce
(www.voicetheunion.org.uk/stress). COVID-19 preventing wider opening of schools
and nurseries. Nothing could be
This year has seen unprecedented further from the truth. There was no
In addition to casework, we also
change to the way we all live and work squabbling or warring between unions
continue to answer a high volume
due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As and government, or indeed between
of telephone calls from members
parents embarked on home schooling/ unions, who all agreed that wider
seeking advice and information.
childcare, many while working from opening of schools and nurseries should
Calls rose exponentially in the weeks
home or with concerns for job security proceed, when it was safe to do so. All
after lockdown was announced, and
and financial support, the respect and negotiations were, and continue to be,
continued as announcements about
goodwill for our members who work professional and politely conducted.
furlough schemes and guidance for
in education and early education and
schools and nurseries were issued.
childcare increased enormously. We continue to fully engage with
All our work and representation has ministers and officials to ensure the
continued during the pandemic, but Education and childcare safety of members as they adjust to yet
further changes in the way they work.
has been conducted remotely via video professionals, themselves (See www.voicetheunion.org.uk/blog/
or telephone conferencing. Although
some meetings will continue to require key workers, were asked divide-rule.)
physical presence, video conferencing to work differently with
is proving to be efficient and more We respect that not all our members
convenient for many.
very little notice. The hold the same views on a variety of
professions responded matters – not just the wider opening
of schools and nurseries, or indeed, a
Working with others magnificently, overcoming potential transfer to Community – but
The Memorandum of Understanding some enormous barriers we do know that you care passionately
(MoU) with Community remains in place and fears for the safety of about the students, pupils and children
and joint working continues. Recently you are responsible for and the provision
we have linked our Union Learning Reps their pupils, families, and of education.
with Community’s ULR programme and themselves.
looked at joint training for volunteers You have all responded amazingly
from both organisations. during the pandemic to ensure access to
The easing of restrictions across all
education and to maintain contact with
nations and the announcements that
Our affiliation to GFTU (General those not yet in school, nursery or
schools and nurseries could begin to
Federation of Trade Unions) continues college, and for that I add my
accept more children received very
and provides, in addition to the thanks to the heartfelt thanks of
mixed receptions from parents and
education programme available, the nation for your dedication and
the workforce alike. This in turn led to
opportunity for wider networking commitment.
rumour and speculation across social
and joint campaigns across a range media and the press that unions were
of unions representing a variety of at ‘war’ with government and were
professions and occupations.
4 Back
VOICE of the
president
or that I would have only had remote A successful ballot result from our
meetings with colleagues in recent members would lead us into a period of
months. transition to establish and develop our
section within Community and realign
We did not foresee the difficulties some of our administrative procedures
which would be experienced by the with theirs, and to set our priorities
education sector or the impact there and agenda. From this, I believe that
would be on families and family life. we would be able to develop a range of
AN EVENTFUL
TIME TO Be
President
By Joy Rowley (joyrowley@
voiceactivists.org.uk) who became
President, and Chris Wilson Vice
President, at the Annual General
Meeting on 20 June 2020
My first task as President was to Voice has been proactive in objectives and campaigns in response
to member issues and requirements
say my own personal massive thank ongoing negotiations with that would see Voice developing its
you to Melynda Standring for the government in relation to impact on education across the UK.
tremendous work that she has
children and young people An unsuccessful result would mean
done as President over the last 12
months.
returning to education a period of adjustment and some
and early years settings, difficult decisions for National
I
Officers and Council to ensure that we
have been a member of Voice for how this will look and the could continue to offer members the
many years and never envisaged
when I joined that I would one day impact the time lost will service and support they need, and to
continue to be a Voice of reason in an
be taking up the presidential reins. I have on this generation of increasingly hostile union landscape.
joined Voice, or PAT as it was then, as it
enabled me to maintain my belief that
young people.
no action should be taken by teachers I am looking forward to my
that would be injurious to the education There is still much work year as President and hope
of the young people that we work with.
This principle is still as important to
to do, but all nations seem that we will be here next
Voice today as it was when I joined. to be moving in the right year in a much stronger
direction. position. It is going to be
Eventful time an eventful year, but one
2020 to 2021 is likely to see a level
We have had a very eventful year in
of COVID restrictions still in place for
which I believe will take
2019 to 2020, with Special General
Meetings and the initial vote in some time, and internally at Voice, is us forward pursuing the
relation to our possible merger with likely to be as eventful as last year. member mandate for
Community. The clear mandate from
the members in that vote was that they We have undertaken a further ballot change which we received
were ready for change. of members about the transfer during in the Autumn.
July (see page 3). Our work as National
Nobody foresaw a few months ago Officers and Council will be directly I look forward to working with you all.
where we would be now. I did not affected by the result of that ballot.
anticipate making my AGM speech www.voicetheunion.org.uk/national-
remotely through a computer link, officers-and-council
Back 5
VOICE
FOCUS
Engaging with So, if you’re aged between 18 and 29,
keep an eye on your inbox!
Recent research by the TUC suggests
that a decline in youth membership
the Future: We all know how important union
goes some way towards explaining this
trend. Trade union membership among
Giving our membership is, and we all have a
responsibility to both engage and
young workers (20–29) is 14.1%, falling
by almost half to 7.5% in the private
Young Members recruit young members. Often, the
best people to support and engage
sector. It’s important to remember that,
according to government statistics
a Voice young members are their colleagues (Trade Union Membership, UK 1995-
who experience the same highs, lows, 2019: Statistical Bulletin: https://
By Rob Jaques successes and challenges on a daily assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/
Professional Officer basis. It’s down to all of us to make government/uploads/system/uploads/
sure the next generation experiences attachment_data/file/887740/Trade-
Our most recent membership the same support and opportunity as union-membership-2019-statistical-
figures tell us that 34% of Voice’s previous generations. bulletin.pdf), education remains the
industry with the highest density
membership is aged between 18 Trade unions, as modern, forward- (although this is due largely to the
and 29, and such a dynamic group thinking organisations, have a vital public sector). It’s important for us to
deserves to have its voice heard. role to play in this, just as they have understand where we fit in this trend.
for hundreds of years, and Voice is
W
e’re keen to make sure that no different. As the only union to As we know, 34% per cent of Voice
we give our young members a represent workers from all areas and members are aged between 18 and 29.
voice, both in their workplace stages of the education sector, we This may look like a very high, healthy
and within their union. So, Voice, like are uniquely placed to offer a holistic figure. However, a large percentage of
many other unions, must work hard approach to youth engagement in those members are students or newly
to engage, attract and keep young education. qualified, with discounted membership
members. fees. Just 5.8% of our young members
Declining union membership are working.
We’re aware of the challenges faced
by unions in engaging with young In his article, ‘Servicing or Organising
Your ideas
members, and in March, I attended (or both)?’, in the May/June 2020 Your
a focus group with colleagues from Voice, Vice President Chris Wilson We know that increasing this figure isn’t
other unions, including Community, and quoted figures on the decline of union as simple as just sharing our content
GFTU, to share some insights into these membership: on social media so, as a member-led
challenges. organisation, we want to hear your
‘All unions – “professional” or ideas for engaging young members.
This proved to be a valuable “political”, “moderate” or “militant” It doesn’t matter if you’re a student
starting point for a project on youth – are facing long-term decline. In the member, an NQT, or are approaching
engagement. Over the coming months, late 1970s, trade unions organised retirement – your voice matters and we
fellow Professional Officer Cameron more than 50% of all workers. Today, want to hear it!
Mitchell and I will be looking at how it’s closer to 20%.’
we can improve our engagement with You can contact us at contact@
younger members. This will include, voicetheunion.org.uk using the
as a starting point, some surveys. subject title ‘Youth Engagement’.
6 Back
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VOICE
FOCUS
Covid Survey Results Safe opening
We asked if it would be safe for schools in England to open to
By Martin Hodge a wider number of pupils from 1 June, as the Government had
Senior Professional Officer (Policy) proposed. Unsurprisingly, almost 80% of respondents felt it
would not be feasible or that their setting would not be ready
COVID-19 has impacted every aspect of our lives. Voice to reopen due to the lack of time before 1 June. This opinion
members across the UK have risen to this challenge, was consistent across respondents in maintained schools and
but it has been a particularly worrying time for those academies, independent schools and the early years.
in private settings, unsure about whether there
would be any money to pay them, and this continues
to be a concern as settings reopen. We are aware of
a significant number of private nurseries and some
independent schools that are struggling financially and
may yet have to close their doors for good.
I
n May 2020, we surveyed members and others across the
UK about the impact of COVID-19 on their work.
The 964 responses gave us vital intelligence to inform our
contributions to government on members’ behalf:
Although there was consensus on this, the situation locally
was complex. Respondents’ comments included:
> 550 worked in primary education;
> 146 worked in secondary education; ‘Too much negative media coverage is creating fear and
anxiety.’
> 160 in early years and childcare;
> 6% in independent schools; and ‘The school will be able to take in the three year groups as
planned, numbers greater than 15 can be moved to empty
> 2% in FE colleges. classrooms and taught by teachers from unused year
groups. The problem arises when the rest of the school
join us as we have only one spare classroom and a library
area we can utilise.’
‘15 is too large for our class sizes – 10 would be more
feasible.’
There were also concerns about staffing.
‘All staff would have to be in work to cover children as we
are a small school and don’t have very many staff. If one or
two had to isolate…’
‘Staff may have to bring their own children in with them.’
‘[We will need] extra cleaners and extra lunch staff.’
Asked if they thought the Government had selected the most
appropriate year groups, there was a similarly clear response,
which was much more nuanced in the commentary.
‘Pupils are losing out on their social developing skills as
well as their education. The risk of transmission from
them is minimal so the sooner they are back in the better,
allowing their parents to return to work.’
Next
8VOICE
FOCUS
Some respondents suggested ways that schools and settings
could reopen safely.
‘Not all year groups at once. Smaller class sizes than
15 – should be calculated by the square footage of the
classroom, to ensure safe distances.’
‘Smaller class sizes. PPE for staff and regular testing.
Same staff work with the same children in the same
class. Regular hand washing for children and staff. Own
equipment. Small groups for lunchtimes and breaktimes.
Extra cleaning of the school. Even carpets and soft
furniture being removed. Carpets replaced with laminate
flooring.’
Whilst some of the comments may prove to be prohibitively
costly, government guidance does encourage the continued use
Did the Government select the most appropriate year of small groups, social distancing and the removal of hard to clean
groups? surfaces and soft furnishings.
91.1% of respondents did not feel that their settings would be
able to welcome back all pupils for a month before the end of
‘The lower year groups are the ones who are missing out on a
the academic year, largely because of government guidelines on
lot of their education and missing out on key learning goals,
maximum pupil numbers.
however, I feel year groups such as year 5 is a key group and
should be one of the first ones going back due to SATs next year.’ Voice has been supportive of schools that have looked at returning
additional year groups, but few schools across the UK have been
‘In terms of Y6, I think they would have been better off going able to open more widely due to a lack of space.
straight to their secondary schools to support their transition,
and primaries to have had Y5 back.’ Since the survey concluded, government plans for Autumn term
reopening have been published, and Voice will be surveying
Comments from those in secondary schools and academies members on them. But as with all things COVID, we encourage
included: members to engage with the processes that will ensure you are
safe. If you don’t feel safe, please get in touch.
‘Surely those teenagers in year 10 and 12, who have exams
next year are more worried and have to lose out on more not See the full report: www.voicetheunion.org.uk/covid-19-survey-
being in school. Some things you cannot do at home and some results
may not have parents who are able to support them with this
level or the subject understanding.’ Take part in our latest survey: www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/
COVID19AutumnSurvey
‘Absolute priority to get years 10 and 12 in – we are doing
massive damage to these years through the lockdown – you
only get one chance at education and it is being severely EARLY YEARS AND COVID-19 SURVEY
damaged – we will regret this in years to come when we see We also surveyed our early years and childcare members
the effect of this on this generation.’ specifically to understand the situation that they were
experiencing.
Many had real concerns about the safety aspect of children
returning, especially young children in nurseries and reception A total of 259 Voice members responded from across the
classes. UK and a range of job roles and experience. Almost 25% of
respondents were members in Scotland where the advice and
‘2,3 and 4 year olds are unable to be socially distanced …
guidance is issued by the Scottish Government.
then it’s the contact with parents and carers. How can you
safely hand over children staggered whilst supervising other
See the results at www.voicetheunion.org.uk/early-years-
children?’
covid-19-survey
‘Social distancing at these ages will be impossible to enforce.
In my early years setting we work in one large room, 13 adults,
36 child places and about 60 children attend various sessions.
Children have access to all toys and are allowed free play. impact of COVID-19 INQUIRY
Cleaning is going to be a huge issue.’ Voice also responded to the Commons Education Committee’s
inquiry, The impact of COVID-19 on education and children’s
‘Guaranteeing social distancing is impossible with SEN services, including the results of a membership survey with
children … and actually emotionally damaging. Quality more than 850 responses:
EYFS education will be impossible to deliver under the www.voicetheunion.org.uk/COVID-inquiry
circumstances set out in the government guidance.’
Back 9LEGAL SERVICE
FOR MEMBERS
Pattinson & Brewer provide legal support and representation to Voice members
and their families for non-workplace related issues.
Established in 1890, Pattinson & Pattinson & Brewer’s lawyers want to work with trade
unions and help people like Voice members and their
Brewer have always been firmly on the families, and are ready to ‘go the extra mile’ to help.
side of working people, helping them
As a matter of fundamental principle, Pattinson &
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BackVOICE FOCUS
RACISM & DISCRIMINATION
Racism in the UK
in 2020
By Catherine Scrivens, Solicitor
(catherinescrivens@voicetheunion.org.uk)
Britain is ethnically diverse and
yet despite this it is still very much
unequal. How often do we hear of
Britain’s ‘proud history’? It may be
true, but there is a lot of our history
that is not cause for celebration,
but rather shame, and we need to
acknowledge this unpalatable past.
To do that, every citizen needs to
be aware of that past, including the
structural inequalities generated
from the colonial past, by educating
our children and young people and
ourselves about it.
R
ecent events, notably the
Windrush scandal and then the measures of 2012 which brought the It is therefore very clear that whilst
unlawful killing of George Floyd, Windrush scandal to the fore remain. we have legislation outlawing
have put issues of race firmly back on discrimination on grounds of race or
the agenda. The death of George Floyd escalated national or ethnic origins, it is also
the issue of race inequality and the case that we have legislation that
An independent review of the Home oppression across the globe. In the UK, allows abuse of those rights.
Office’s handling of the historic sadly, there was an almost identical
Windrush cases found: incident carried out by police officers in Individuals must also become more
London in July 2020. The Report of the sophisticated in being able to identify
‘institutional ignorance and Runnymede Trust in 2015 found: and speak out against racism, as well as
thoughtlessness towards the issue of taking action in their own professional
race and the history of the Windrush ‘Systemic and institutional racism and personal capacities to address it.
generation within the department, persists in policing despite its
which are consistent with some recognition in the Macpherson
elements of the definition of
Employers need to have
Report more than fifteen years
institutional racism’. ago. In Britain, black and minority diversity and inclusion at
(Windrush Lessons Learned Review ethnic people are disproportionately the heart of their activities.
represented in the criminal justice
– Wendy Williams, March 2020,
system at every level, from arrests to
We must embrace allyship
HC 93: www.gov.uk/government/
publications/windrush-lessons- stop and search, to imprisonment, to within the workplace and
learned-review) deaths in custody. be prepared to speak up
As a result, Windrush Day (22 June) ‘Successive governments’ counter- and challenge oppression
terrorism policies have resulted in
was created as a time to celebrate the
racial profiling and over-policing of where we see it.
substantial and ongoing contribution
of the Windrush generation and their Muslim and Asian communities, and
descendants, who helped to rebuild the have fed a pervasive Islamophobia
United Kingdom after World War II and now affecting British and other
European societies.’ As a union, Voice has a ‘Commitment
have influenced the United Kingdom’s
to Racial Equality at Work for
social, cultural and political landscape (Justice, Resistance and Solidarity: our staff and members’
ever since. Race and Policing in England (www.voicetheunion.org.uk/racial-
and Wales – Runnymede Trust, equality) but it is evident that we all
It is also a time to reflect on righting Runnymede Perspectives 2015: need to do more than merely have a
the wrongs of the Windrush scandal www.runnymedetrust.org/uploads/ statement.
and focus on the fight against racism. images/race and policing v4.pdf)
The Government’s ‘hostile environment’ Next
11VOICE focus
racism & discrimination
Britain’s involvement in slavery must be taught to
dispel ignorance and destroy Discrimination
While the British natives are ignorant Geneticists Kelly Owens and Mary-
of Britain’s involvement in slavery Claire King stated: ‘Of course prejudice
due to it not being compulsory in the does not require a rational basis, let
school curriculum, there is also a lack of alone an evolutionary one, but the myth
empathy towards even footballers who of major genetic difference across
have to endure ‘monkey chants’. “races” is nonetheless worth dismissing
with genetic evidence.’ Race is a
discriminator.
Black people have always
fought with Britain, and Discrimination has continued down
generations, causing young black
enlisted in the British people to feel frustrated with
armed forces from 1744, continually having to prove themselves,
and now deportation threats hang over
yet continue to receive their heads. They have seen how the
Windrush descendants, who rebuilt
negative stereotypical the country, have been discriminated
colonial attitudes. Britain’s against by governments, because
politicians set the atmosphere with
involvement in the their rhetoric.
By Nardia Foster MA, BSc (Hons) ‘Triangular Trade’ of slavery
Psychology, C.Psychol., AFBPsS; life Black teachers
coach, author of Out of Slavery, and must be taught to dispel
Black teachers face the stereotypes
Voice Chairman Emeritus ignorance and destroy that have been constructed over the
Scientific evidence suggests the discrimination towards years against them. The ‘BAME’ [Black,
Asian and minority ethnic] title imposes
original peoples in Britain were black people, which has on us the notion that my history is
black skinned, with dark curly continued despite the Race the same as every other non-white
hair and blue eyes, and their DNA person, assuming we all have the same
lives in at least ten per cent of the Relations Act in 1965. pain and history. As the descendant
population. Cheddar Man’s skeleton of enslaved people, the term BAME
to me is an excuse to avoid dealing
is around 10,000 years old and ‘Race’
with enslavement issues and their
shows he was of Paleolithic African The term ‘race’, introduced in 1749 by consequences.
origins. Repeatedly, ancient Georges-Louis Leclerc and Comte de
historians described the colour Buffon, prolonged the notion of white Further information
being right, good and beautiful, and
of the people found in Britain and Out of Slavery – Learning about the
black being the opposite. Enslavers
were ignored. Black people have and governments seized upon this lie history of British Black Caribbean
been in the UK since the beginning, to justify their social, political and People (2004):
even including a Roman Emperor, economic oppression of black people.
> www.amseducational.co.uk/product/
Septimus Severus.
At the Rose Garden Ceremony in June out-of-slavery
D
espite this, Britain eagerly 2000, President Bill Clinton with two > www.amazon.co.uk/Out-Slavery-
became involved in slavery, which genome sequencers, Francis Collins Learning-History-Caribbean/
lasted from the 1600s to the and Craig Ventor, said that humans have dp/0954742001
1800s. identical genome sequences, at 99.9%.
Also by Nardia Foster: ‘Supply
When slavery ended, the propaganda Ventor added that, ‘the concept of Teaching: I can’t hide my colour,
about black people continued, “race” has no genetic or scientific basis’, therefore my history’ (2011):
reinforced by scientists who and Collins stated that ‘those who https://educateself.wordpress.
described black people as ‘uncivilised’, wish to draw precise racial boundaries com/2011/12/21/supply-teacher
while rewriting their history. Many around certain groups will not be
descendants of the enslaved today able to use science as a legitimate
feel marginalised and discriminated, justification’.
resulting in psychological
consequences.
Next
12VOICE focus
racism & discrimination
#BLM Movement must spark Conscious and unconscious bias have
been my constant companions through
curriculum change school and in my career. I’ve used my
experiences to empower others from
he didn’t lose his love for the Queen, different cultural heritages and faiths
whose framed photograph took pride in my lessons.
of place in our lounge. After three years
of hard work in the mills, he bought a Time to decolonise
small house.
It’s time to decolonise the school
curricula to produce ones inclusive of
I arrived in England in all pupils and their backgrounds. They
1966, aged 8, with my deserve to learn about the impact of
the British Empire and its legacy in the
mother and two brothers. Commonwealth.
My parents encouraged
We must address the systemic
us to learn English and inequalities inherent in this country
prepare for the 11+ test. I and recognise that colonial influences
passed, but had to re-sit, persist within society.
with an examiner in front A person’s skin colour, faith and
of me. They couldn’t accept language should be celebrated and
not used to crush them. We owe this to
By Kaisra Khan, teacher and Voice that an immigrant child, George Floyd ‘s memory. May he rest in
Council Member who came with no English, peace!
The killing of George Floyd by a
had passed after only two
police officer in America shocked years in the country. My
the world. His death was a brutal headteacher was furious! BAME
one in a catalogue of many deaths
If this wasn’t enough humiliation, I was I feel the ‘BAME’ category is useful
of people of colour. in monitoring these communities’
denied my first choice of grammar
school, because they didn’t want a experiences, and don’t see it as divisive.
These questions must be answered:
‘coloured girl’. However, the second In a perfect society, where people
grammar school enrolled me with open were judged on their merits, we could
> Why did no one stop his killing in
arms. Some of the girls were racists dispense with such categorisations. I
broad daylight?
and called me the ‘P-word’ and the hope for a better future for generations
> Are black lives seen as expendable ‘W-word’. I used to cry and question my to come.
globally? father’s decision to bring us to such a
Editor: Let us know your views
> Is this the experience of BAME horrible country.
(pressoffice@voicetheunion.org.uk).
(Black, Asian, minority ethnic)
communities in the UK? Our parents encouraged me to study
hard and be the best, but I was refused
a place to read medicine at all five
universities I’d applied to. A white girl OUR COMMITMENT
I was born in Pakistan, a decade after
the horrific fracture of post-colonial
with lower grades received five offers.
Ironically, she dropped out after two
TO RACIAL
India. My parents and grandparents
escaped with their lives. In 1963, my
weeks! EQUALITY AT
father answered Queen Elizabeth’s
request for Commonwealth people
After graduating, I became a science
teacher. I’ve been overlooked for
WORK FOR OUR
to come to the UK to help rebuild
it. Having fought in the British Indian
senior leadership roles – feedback STAFF AND
from interviews was always very
Army against the Japanese and been a
prisoner of war, he felt British and left
good, however, there was always a MEMBERS
‘but’. Then, a headteacher friend told
full of pride. me in confidence that wearing the In response to the death of George
hijab (head scarf) was my hurdle to Floyd and related events across the
However, he wasn’t welcomed warmly. promotion beyond middle leadership. UK, Voice has confirmed its steadfast
A lawyer and qualified mathematician, Islamophobia had reared its ugly head commitment to racial equality.
he tried to get work in various in my adulthood. Read our statement:
professions, but apparently his Indian www.voicetheunion.org.uk/racial-
accent wasn’t acceptable. However, equality
Back 13STUDENT
FOCUS
THINGS TO CONSIDER
BEFORE ENTERING THE
WORKPLACE FOR THE
FIRST TIME
By Jack Wholey, Marketing Assistant
(jackwholey@voicetheunion.org.uk)
First, congratulations to those of you who
have finished your qualification and secured
your new role. For those who have not yet
secured a position, there are useful tips for
securing that first job in this article from a
previous issue of Your Voice:
www.voicetheunion.org.uk/sites/default/
files/Preparing-Enter-Workplace-Nov18.pdf
For the next few months, you may feel excited that
you have secured your first job, but also nervous
about the upcoming year as a newly qualified
professional. However, if you have some time
over the summer to prepare yourself for your
first day, make the most of it by getting the
essentials prepared. These could include
supplies, designing a bulletin board or display
for your class and learning your schedule.
However, there are many other things to
consider before you enter the workplace.
Making the most of your summer
break
Although you’re about to enter the world
of work, and may be thinking about your
upcoming year in the workplace and that you
need to spend the next few weeks preparing,
you should still take the time to relax and
unwind.
If you’re moving to a new area, it may be a good idea
to check out the local attractions. This time off may
also be a good opportunity to brush up on skills for
both your personal and your professional life.
Next
14The break is a great opportunity to > hand sanitiser – with the COVID-19
catch up with friends and family before pandemic, this is a necessity,
starting your new job. You should especially if you are interacting with
also make the most of the lie-ins a lot of different children or students
while you can as you may not have the throughout the day;
opportunity to indulge in them
> tissues – being in an environment
as much when you start
with children, you or a child are bound
the job.
to get the sniffles; and
Don’t forget, however, > mug – make sure to have a mug, as
to make sure you’re all you will need it for those ever-so-
ready for the start of important breaks to get you through
your new job. Here are the day!
some things you might
want to think about in Get your uniform organised
advance.
Your workplace may have a specific
dress code, so it will be worth checking
Emergency supplies that out first. You can get this from the
Even though we’re sure workplace administrator.
you will have the basics
covered, you will also have For teaching in a classroom, we would
to consider supplies for recommend getting items of clothing
certain occasions. We would which are smart but also comfy that can
recommend getting all your be mixed to vary your outfits, such as
supplies ready in a box for you to take a collared or dress shirt (long sleeved
on your first day: or short sleeved) along with trousers/a
knee-length skirt and smart shoes.
pain killers – not because of the pupils/ You may also want to get some blazers
children, of course!; or jumpers for those colder days.
Complementing your outfit with a tie or
> lip balm – you will be talking for a bowtie will give you a more formal look,
large portion of the day, or go without for a more casual look,
which may chap your lips, so depending on the dress code.
this will come in useful;
For those working in early years and
> snacks – your working day childcare, if you’re not provided with
can be a long one, and a uniform, a polo shirt along with
there may be days where trousers is the best bet, but ensure
you work through your that the trousers are suitable and
lunch or are too busy to comfortable for bending down/
prepare lunch for the crouching. We would also recommend
day; getting a zip-up fleece or a cardigan for
> spare money – if you those cold days.
need to go to the
shop or coffee/ Make sure to look at the labels to
vending machine; ensure that your clothing is machine
washable and dryer compatible, to
> spare clothes/ ensure that you can get your uniform
waterproof coat cleaned and dried easily on those busy
– with the British days.
weather, you never know when
there will be a rainy spell;
Next
15
11Get familiar with the curriculum Stay up to date in the workplace
For classroom-based staff, your You are the new face, and there will be
workplace should offer a teacher an expectation for you to know about
manual that will detail the curriculum current trends, topics, and issues in
and standards for the school year. You education or childcare, so:
should grab this as soon as you can, and
even if you can’t bring yourself to read > sign up for newsletters from education
the whole thing, just skimming through or early years websites;
will give you an idea of what is expected
> follow important figures in education/
of you.
early years on Twitter; and
First day activities > of course, as a member of Voice, you
will receive your quarterly digital
You will not be the only nervous magazine, Your Voice, as well as
one on your first day – the pupils/ monthly emails to keep you updated.
children will be too. Use this as an
opportunity to get to know them. Communication with parents/
Think of fun but informative carers
activities to use for this – for
example, a ‘show- and-tell’ or an It’s vital that you communicate with your
activity that will get discussion going pupils’/children’s parents/carers so you
between you and them. can work together, not only to further
the children’s education, but also to
get an understanding of them when the
Keep on top of emails/post parents or carers aren’t there.
You may receive a lot of emails and
letters during the beginning of your This will also help to show the parents
new job, so make sure to keep on top of that you are reliable and happy to
them. This will also help you to keep up communicate with them if needs be.
to date with news in your workplace.
Hints and tips
Maintain a work-life In the previous issue of Your Voice, we
balance featured members’ advice and tips for
Your first year may be the students to consider before entering the
most difficult of your career, workplace for the first time, so it may be
as you will be coming to terms worth having a look at that if you have
with a lot of aspects of the not already! You can view this online
profession, but do not let this at: www.voicetheunion.org.uk/sites/
affect your mental health. default/files/Member-insights-May20.
pdf
Make sure to put aside time to
sleep, eat and relax. You will then Don’t forget
enter the workplace in a healthier
As your union, Voice is here to help
mindset than you would after a
you and offer advice throughout your
night of no sleep. We understand
career. If you have any queries before or
that it will be next to impossible not
during your first year, contact us (www.
to bring work home, but try to put
voicetheunion.org.uk/contact-us) and
yourself first.
we’ll be happy to help. We’d love to hear
from you!
16 BackEARLY
YEARS
normal’. It was a magical moment on
that first day to hear laughter and little
voices fill the building again.
Staff wellbeing
This is a difficult situation for us all, and
I know some staff have been nervous
about possibly contracting the virus and
taking it back to their families. Time
has helped. The more days that go by
without incidents, the more relaxed
we’re feeling.
There is still that feeling of doing
the children a disservice, however,
especially those leaving to move on to
school. These final weeks should be full
Reopening What hit me was the sadness I felt – the
lack of resources, the separate areas for
of fun, with visits, parties and games.
Although we’re still making it a time to
the bubbles, a feeling of it being stark remember, we’re sad the whole group
By a pre-school manager & early years cannot be together.
and uninviting.
teacher member at an early years
setting in England
Whilst some settings have been open
for key workers’ children throughout
the pandemic, others, like mine, only
opened their doors in June.
I
t’s been a challenging time, with an
overwhelming sense of responsibility
towards children, staff and the wider
community. Reopening has taken
a considerable amount of planning,
unfortunately with the knowledge that
not everyone will be happy with the
arrangements.
Preparation’s been a mammoth task,
unlike anything I’ve ever undertaken. Our current provision isn’t a reflection The worry and stress isn’t set to ease
Fully aware of the risks, we delayed of how we’d usually run, and I can’t soon. Looking ahead to September is
until 15 June. Even then, I was not fully help feeling the children deserve more scary with many unanswered questions.
confident that opening was the right than this. However, it needs to be safe Will our numbers drop and mean we
decision – infection and death rates so restricting the toys and resources become unsustainable? How will the
were sadly still high. is necessary. Cleaning at the end of easing of restrictions work in practice?
every session is time-consuming but Will all staff be able to come off furlough?
I knew I’d done all I could to prepare, essential in helping us all feel we’re
but it was frightening to consider doing everything we can to protect the Unfortunately, this means the summer
how much we were relying on families children and ourselves. holidays will be a time for more planning
to help us make the setting a safe and preparation, but I’m confident we’ll
place for children and staff. It’s vital Some staff remain furloughed. Those do all we can to ensure the setting is a
families adhere to our revised terms working directly with the children have welcoming, happy space for children and
and conditions – the more families been amazingly sensitive, responsive staff to learn and play together.
mix and fail to socially distance, the and tuned in. This has enabled children
increased likelihood of infection and to adapt quickly – they’ve surprised us www.voicetheunion.org.uk/blog/
risk to the setting. Unfortunately, all. After being away for nearly three reopening
because of a breach of the conditions, I months, we expected some tears and
had to withdraw a space – an incredibly time to settle, especially as parents and
difficult decision. carers had to drop off at the gate rather The author also wrote ‘The thought of
than in the building. However, children reopening fully is challenging’ (May
The night before reopening, I walked re-joined us with smiles and chatter, 2020): www.voicetheunion.org.uk/blog/
around, checking everything was ready. happy to be back, regardless of our ‘new thought-reopening-fully-challenging
17
BackFURTHER &
HIGHER EDUCATION
Reading and Queen’s Belfast suggest
that online lectures will be the norm, at
least until Christmas.
Most universities are likely to provide
some face-to-face teaching in 2020/21
and Durham University recently
reversed a decision to move teaching
wholly online, so the picture is changing
all the time.
For Voice members, this means
a constantly changing scene of
expectations and demands from
both learner and employer. Practical
sessions are likely to be those which
are hardest hit – since singing is still
not allowed, and many science labs,
catering kitchens, workshops and
ReOpening FHE university assignments have continued
to be submitted online.
other specialist resources might not be
available.
By Martin Hodge The UK Government recently published It is sensible to plan a blended
Senior Professional Officer (Policy) its September reopening plan for FE approach, certainly for the first
colleges and providers, which makes term, making sure that resources are
Question: What is the difference clear that ‘FE learners, whether available to be shared online, and to use
between students attending young people or adults, will be able to an approach which can be adapted to
lectures, and students accessing return to further education settings both face-to-face and virtual tutoring,
them remotely? in September and experience a full at least until the full situation is
education’. apparent.
Answer: About £9,000 per student. Of course, this still means adherence Universities UK has published a
I
to a strict hierarchy of infection bulleted list for how universities
n concert with the rest of the
control, including hand and respiratory should emerge from lockdown, which
education sector, universities,
hygiene, increased cleaning, and echoes many of the steps Voice has
colleges and further education
social distancing. And, like within been saying for all education settings
providers all locked down in March.
schools, timetabling will also be used – including rigorous risk assessments
Of course, lockdown did not lessen the
to reduce corridor crowding or large and a focus on staff and student well-
workload for diligent Voice members
groups congregating. Sadly, this does being – because, above all else, that is
working in universities, or those in
not seem to recognise the significant likely to be the single biggest issue that
colleges and FE settings up and down
amount of learning that takes place on emerges – and maybe, here education
the country who have been setting
placements, through apprenticeships can really lead the way.
work, providing resources, doing online
and other vocational programmes,
teaching, seminars, and discussion
and it will be essential that staff Further information
groups, and liaising with vocational
and learners follow both college and
employers all to continue to support
workplace rules depending on where > www.universitiesuk.ac.uk/policy-
their learners.
they are. and-analysis/reports/Pages/
principles-considerations-
And now as we emerge, like butterflies
This means that the college of the emerging-lockdown-uk-
into the dawn of a new world, what is
near future looks very different to the universities-june-2020.aspx
it that needs to be done to support
college of the recent past, but it is at
learners; what is it that needs to be
least recognisable. The picture for HE > www.gov.uk/government/
done to support staff; and what is
is radically different. publications/coronavirus-
the Government doing to support the
covid-19-maintaining-
institutions?
HE further-education-provision/
what-fe-colleges-and-providers-
FE As befits some of the most important will-need-to-do-from-the-start-
and forward-thinking academic of-the-2020-autumn-term
In England, Ofqual was very prompt
institutions in the world, there has
with its response to support exams and
been a seismic shift towards online and > www.gov.uk/government/
safeguard the outcomes for learners in
remote working across the university publications/higher-education-
both A levels and the various vocational
sector, and recent announcements from reopening-buildings-and-
and technical qualifications that make
the likes of Cambridge, Manchester, campuses
up the post-16 scene. And many
18 BackYou can also read
