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And find out why ATL is the fastest growing union in the education sector
Who is eligible to join?
Membership of ATL is open to all those who are directly involved in the delivery of education to pupils and students, from early years through to further and higher education. Those who work in the education sector but who are not directly involved in education delivery can also join through individual affiliate membership.
Standard membership includes teachers (full-time, part-time and supply), lecturers, headteachers and principals employed in the maintained and independent sectors, and those - such as teaching assistants, HLTAs, nursery nurses, special needs assistants, technicians and librarians/library assistants - who work with them.
ATL members work in England, Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. ATL also has members who work in service schools in Germany and Cyprus, and in the independent sector throughout the UK. Please be aware that professionals who work in any country other than those listed above are ineligible for standard membership.
Whether you work full time or part time, are employed by a teaching or lecturing agency, whether you are training to be a teacher/lecturer, are retired, or are returning to education after a career break, ATL has lots to offer you.
Membership of ATL is organised into the following broad categories:
student membership - for those who are training to become teachers, lecturers and education support staff
standard newly qualified membership - for those beginning their career, where they have not previously held a teacher or lecturer position
standard teaching membership - for teachers and lecturers, including supply and part-time
standard support staff membership - for teaching assistants, HLTAs, nursery nurses, specials needs assistants, librarians and technicians
AMiE membership - for heads, principals and other leaders
individual affiliate membership - for those working in the education sector who are not directly involved in the delivery of education, such as administrative staff, caretakers, receptionists and secretaries.
group affiliate membership - for members of the National Association of School Business Management (formerly the National Bursars' Association), Independent School Bursars' Association and the Examination Officers' Association
associate membership - for those involved in education but not requiring support relating to their current employment
retired membership - for teachers, lecturers and support staff who have retired and who are in receipt of pension.
Please read our terms and conditions.
For full information on eligibility
If you are not sure whether you are eligible, please contact our recruitment hotline on 0845 057 7000 (local rates apply) or email our membership department.