Union launches manifesto prior to general election

Teachers' union NAHT has launched its manifesto 'For Their Future' calling for children’s education to be a pivotal part of the debate leading up to the July general election. 

The union is calling on all parties to pledge to "restore education to its rightful place as a national priority." 

They said this will be the most important general election for children and young people in decades. 

The manifesto emphasises the crucial role of education in giving children the start they need in life and in shaping society's future. It pinpoints three issues relating to schools that they said the next government must address. 

These include a decrepit school estate, a special educational needs (SEND) system failing pupils, and the recruitment and retention crises.

It highlights how additional funding for education will be essential in solving all these pressing issues. 

The manifesto reiterates NAHT's calls for fundamental reform of the school inspection system, particularly the removal of single-word judgements. 

It also highlights an opportunity for the next government to ensure that schools meet the needs of all pupils by delivering a curriculum and assessment system that prepares them for life in the modern world. 

Paul Whiteman, general secretary said: “For too long, children’s education has been sidelined. Over the coming weeks of the election campaign, NAHT will be vociferous in championing the interests of the next generation, and advocating for the teaching profession.  

“Crises in recruitment and retention, special educational needs and our school buildings are growing out of control. 

“With the right investment and a reset in the relationship with the profession, whoever wins the election can solve these problems. 

“It is time to restore education as a national priority – it is what our children deserve.”