ATL

Welcome

Andy Ballard is national president of ATL

ATL has been an important part of my life for more than 25 years. However, there are many members who have been part of this great union for more decades than I have. This issue we celebrate 125 years of the association's history - we've been at the heart of representing important education issues and our role is bigger and more important today than ever before.

In this issue there is also comprehensive guidance about the hard-fought improvements to teachers' contracts, which mean they will rarely cover for absent colleagues. I'm sure teachers all over the country will breathe a huge sigh of relief knowing that their non-contact time will not be taken at short notice to teach other people's classes and that they will be able to get on with their own work uninterrupted. Not before time, but nevertheless an excellent victory, due in no small part to the splendid negotiating skills of ATL's team.

ATL trains a large number of members to act as health and safety reps and there is a timely reminder from ATL solicitor Sharon Liburd about the most frequent of issues - slips, trips and falls.

We have an excellent article from Philip Dixon (Wales) on how ATL relies on reasoned argument to win its cases; Mark Langhammer (Northern Ireland) presents a compelling case for a more equal society; and there is a great summary from Keith Robson (Scotland) on the effects of devolution on education.

My own musical ability scores on the negative side but I am delighted by the story of an award-winning ATL member, Kirstie Byrne, who uses music to such wonderful effect.

The impact of current financial difficulties on our independent school members is highlighted in a feature that makes clear why teachers outside the maintained sector should be members of ATL.

I am pleased that Sir Alan Sugar has offered his interesting views on apprenticeships, which are such an important route for students who don't want to pursue an academic route.

In closing, I wish all ATL members a restful and well-earned break as we move towards the summer holiday.