Trade Union FAQs

What do I need to know about copyright?

What is it, what does it protect, what does it mean for lessons and resources, what are the exceptions, what can and cannot be used, plus a list of frequently…

The NSEAD ‘thrive’ guide for trainee teachers on their first placement

Going through your first teaching placement can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it can also be extremely rewarding, interesting and validating! Here…

Tips for when you first begin your new role as an Early Career Teacher (ECT)

Over 40 tips to help you start your new ECT teaching position on the right track.

NSEAD top tips for securing your first job

We've put together some helpful advice and tips for writing a job application and attending interviews.

Q: What can I do about working in excessive temperatures?

Excessive temperatures within the classroom are not only uncomfortable, but they can also be a health and safety hazard, because excessive heat can aggravate…

Q: What should and shouldn't I be using gained time for?

'Gained time' is the time at the end of the school year once timetabled classes have finished after examinations are completed.

Q: What can I expect from my ECT Induction?

From September 2021, a new induction process known as the Early Career Framework (ECF) came into being. The ECF intention is that the new induction process…

Q: Does NSEAD have menopause advice for leaders in all education settings?

Employers are key to supporting women and people going through the menopause in the workplace. But rest assured, you can access support to help.

Q: Is there a menopause and workplace policy we can use?

The following policy can be used in the workplace to help support women and individuals experiencing the menopause.

Q: Is there a checklist for menopause and employment issues?

The Menopause is not just a physical and health issue for women, it can have a significant impact on your employment. The checklist aims to ask helpful…

Q: What is 'section 44'?

Section 44 exists in law to protect employees where there are concerns about the safety arrangements at work.Section 44 has received significant mileage…

Q: Does NSEAD have a toolkit for introducing 'Sensitive Topics' into the Art, Craft and Design Curriculum?

Teachers of Art, Craft and Design are best placed to know and understand what benefits the students they teach and what the curriculum should offer. NSEAD…

Q: Do I need to teach in adverse weather & periods of school closure?

All employers need to have a policy and measures ready to be actioned should there be adverse weather conditions (or other issues*) that affect the workplace…

Q: My teaching room in the winter is very cold, and unsuitable for teaching. What can I do?

Show that the temperature of the room is too low with a thermometer.If the temperature falls too low then you may refuse to teach in your teaching room…

Q. Can I take time off work when my child is sick?

As Covid cases surge in schools, it is important working parents know their rights to take time off work to look after their children when they are sick.

Q: What advice can you give me re: directed time in schools?

Can teachers be required to work on a Saturday/Sunday or public holiday? No teacher, including members of the leadership group, can be required to…

Q. Can I claim tax back on my professional membership fees?

It may be possible to claim tax back on the subscription fees that you pay to NSEAD. We have created a useful guide on this, as well as working from home…

Q: I have been asked to attend a meeting at lunchtime. Can I refuse?

Yes, indeed!'A teacher must be allowed one break of reasonable length between the hours of 12 noon and 2pm.'So, if at your school the lunch break for…

Q. I've found another job - by when do I have to hand in my notice?

According to the Burgundy Book….To leave by the end of the Autumn Term (31/12) you must hand in your notice by 31st OctoberTo leave by the end of the…

Q. What are my maternity rights?

What are my entitlements?This is dependent upon the following factors:* Is the Burgundy Book scheme part of your contract of employment.* Is there a negotiated…

Q: Meetings after school go on for too long. What can I do?

Ask your Head Teacher at what time the meeting is scheduled to finish under the agreed directed time schedule.You are entitled to leave the meeting at…

Q: What advice can you give me as a part-time teacher?

Part-time hours and pay have been clarified in the STPCD (School Teachers Pay and Conditions Document), and there will be many references within your…

Q: My line manager wants to set inappropriate and/or data based Performance Management (Appraisal) targets.

This should be resisted.You can only be held accountable for things that are directly within your control as a teacher.Pupil data and class data is not…

Q: Can I be required to routinely carry out administrative and clerical tasks?

NSEAD expects that members employed in schools cannot be required to routinely carry out administrative and clerical tasks. Teachers are employed substantively…

Q: Can I request flexible working hours?

Flexible working is something an employee can request of their employer. It is ordinarily motivated by a need or desire to share, stagger or break up…

FAQ’s Caveat – Please read carefully

Any advice or information provided within the FAQs section must only be used as generic guidance. This is because across NSEAD membership, NSEAD has members…