
Protecting independent school teachers' pensions
We will support members opposing any proposal to remove teachers’ membership of the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS).
NEU is the largest single union in the independent sector with over 32,000 members in 1,700 schools. We represent more teachers and support staff working in independent schools than any other union.
NEU is recognised by more independent sector employers than any other union. 120 independent schools negotiate staff terms and conditions with NEU, of which roughly half include all support staff as well as teachers.
As a modern trade union, NEU believes in the ethos of the school community and that the contribution of all staff is equally important. Consequently, the NEU welcomes into membership all staff working in the independent sector: teachers and teaching assistants, technicians and librarians, office administration and cleaners, grounds and caretaking staff.
We will support members opposing any proposal to remove teachers’ membership of the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS).
We know that workload is a major concern for members. In the state sector, we are running a directed time campaign, as hours are regulated with a 1,265 directed time maximum.To help reps in the independent sector we have adapted those materials to help you address excess workload.
Guide for National Education Union workplace representatives and members.
This publication complements the National Education Union (NEU) directed time campaign.
Not every workplace has a staff room or communal area, but you are entitled to put up a poster and other union notices somewhere. Use this poster to organise a meeting at your workplace.
In addition to all the usual services you would expect such as first-class advice and support, NEU commits considerable resources to supporting our members in the independent sector.
NEU is the only trade union to offer all of the following:
Staff in independent schools should be consulted on any proposed significant changes to working conditions during the coronavirus outbreak.
NEU advice on Covid-19 for members working in boarding schools during the coronavirus crisis
What legal protection is there on working long hours?
Ten bullet points on independent sector collective bagaining.
Pensions advice note on non-pensionable allowances in the Teachers’ Pensions Scheme.
How to achieve a union recognition agreement in the independent sector.
NEU believes that the increase in the quantity and complexity of work for school support staff has now reached crisis point.
Guidance on matters to consider in relation to pay and conditions when working in the independent sector.
Details about your employment rights in independent schools in England, Wales and Scotland.
Countdown to strike action at GDST’s 23 independent schools
NEU defended members in the Girls Day Schools Trust (GDST) against loss of Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS), and ‘fire and rehire’ threats.
Why defined benefit schemes are worth fighting for