ATL

Welcome

Alex Tomlin is the editor of Report

It's that time at the start of the school year when our members go back to school and ATL welcomes a new president. I'd like to start by thanking Andy Ballard for all his hard work as president over the last year and wish him all the best for the future. Moving into the hot seat is Lesley Ward, and you can read her views on education, unions and the dangers of leaving your shoes by your desk.

The cover story looks at the widespread problem of staff bullying, particularly by senior management. ATL hears a lot about this issue from members and the effects can be disastrous. Victims of bullying feel isolated and low in self-esteem and can suffer depression, nervous breakdowns and panic attacks, not to mention the damage that can be done to their careers by overbearing and aggressive bosses and colleagues.

It's not easy but many do escape their torment and become stronger as a result. Through its network of reps, branch secretaries and regional officials, along with professional staff at the London, Cardiff, Belfast and Edinburgh offices, ATL can help with emotional support, practical advice and legal guidance. So, if you are feeling bullied and can't see a way out, it's worth contacting ATL to see what we can do to help.

On a lighter note, Strictly come dancing stars Darren Bennett and Lilia Kopylova talk about growing up with dancing and the benefits of introducing ballroom into PE lessons. Not only is it great exercise and teaches discipline and coordination, but it also helps boys and girls meet and work together, rather than standing on opposite sides of the hall feeling too shy to talk to one another.

Finally, with the first fast-track training scheme for former City bankers starting this month, we speak to an ATL member who gave up the high-powered business world to teach economics to teenagers. Read his views on the fast-track training programme.