During the Term 2 holidays, young members from a range of different schools and sectors attended IEUA NSW/ACT’s office in Wattle St to discuss how the Union might work more effectively with young members.
The discussion was passionate and wide ranging and reflected their different teaching experiences in non government schools. Members spoke about their journey into teaching, how they became active Union members, the role of Reps in the school, and the way that the IEU can continue to attract strong membership among beginning teachers.
As part of the discussion, the participants agreed to form a Young Members Working Group to meet regularly face to face and online and be of support to each other. They identified how important it was that young teachers had a ‘tribe’ to which they could contribute and belong, particularly having shared common experiences and challenges. There was also discussion about supporting women to become leaders and when they already are leaders.
Sheena Nadan, a new member of IEUA NSW/ACT from Moriah College, said “Young teachers’ workload quite often seems overwhelming. It’s important that we focus on the positives and what we have in common, not what divides us”.
The Young Members Working Group intends to develop a range of materials to support other teachers and support staff. This will include writing blogs to be hosted on the IEU site, moderating forum discussions, sharing resources and contributing to professional development opportunities in both face to face and online environments.
Organiser Lubna Haddad said “Young teachers have specific needs and the Union can help them address those needs and improve their understanding of their rights at work”.
Does this sound like something you might be interested in? Join the Young Members Working Group by emailing Keith Heggart (keith@ieu.asn.au)