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And find out why ATL is the fastest growing union in the education sector
ATL in the independent sector
ATL is the largest single union in the independent sector with approximately 20,000 members in 1700 schools. We represent more teachers and support staff working in independent schools than any other union.
ATL is recognised by more independent sector employers than any other union. Approximately 70 independent schools negotiate staff terms and conditions with ATL, of which roughly half include all support staff as well as teachers.
As a modern trade union, ATL believes in the ethos of the school community and that the contribution of all staff is equally important. Consequently, ATL 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. You can find more about the benefits of ATL membership for support staff here.
Specialist support
In addition to all the usual services you would expect such as first-class advice and support, ATL commits considerable resources to supporting our members in the independent sector.
ATL is the only trade union to offer all of the following:
staff solely dedicated to the independent sector
your local ATL branch, who can help you with any questions or issues that you have (use our 'find my branch' facility on the bottom right-hand side of the page to find one local to you)
an elected member advisory group, the Independent and Private Sector Advisory Group, which advises ATL's Executive Committee
a termly newsletter on independent sector issues
the annual independent schools conference, with key note speakers and seminars, and the opportunity to meet other colleagues in the sector
dedicated publications such as ATL's guide to working in the independent sector and our Work-life balance toolkit for teachers in independent schools
tailored training courses, such as Being our independent school representative
campaigns, such as the ATL campaign against the culture of working excessive hours in the independent sector.
For more information about how to join us, please visit out join us section.