This affects All members in Primary schools and Nurseries, but will also apply to any member who has contact with children aged 7 or younger

Hi ,

The NUT alongside NASUWT, UNISON & NAHT (Headteachers union) in Ealing are all advising their members not to sign this document, at this moment in time.

There are one or two legal challenges being mounted. Until the outcomes of these challenges are known and there is further clarification, this advice remains firmly in place; it is very likely to remain valid for the whole of the Spring Term 2015.

A meeting last Friday involving the teaching unions and Ealing LA showed that there was near identical consensus of opinion on this issue. A consequent communication from the LA to headteachers encouraged them not to pursue any disciplinary action should any teacher refused to sign. We welcome this and members should take heart, stand firm if asked and immediately contact us.

If a NUT member does refuse and faces discipline action despite the above advice, then rest assured the NUT will responded robustly, including collective action, in defence of any victimised member. Further the NAHT have correctly and rightly pointed out that the DfE says schools may ask their staff. In other words a headteacher can choose not to.

Safeguarding

Schools where Ofsted is anticipated soon may feel the pressure to conform more than others. If this applies to you then I urge you to contact me immediately.

What is Disqualification by Association?

A teacher can be banned permanently from teaching if they work or live in a 'household' where somewhere else (doesn't have to be a teacher);

A) Has been convicted or cautioned of certain violent or sex related offences.

B) Is registered on the 'Children's Barred List' 

(There are other criteria, download the DfE document below for full list)

Question: How would I know for certain if this applies to someone I share with?

Answer: You can only say to the best of your knowledge; but this might come back and seriously haunt you later. Best to follow your union's advice and refuse to sign.

Example of how this is being applied

A deputy headteacher has been suspended from school on full pay because her husband was cautioned for affray 17 years ago on a demonstration. She is now hoping that Ofsted will eventually issue a 'waiver' and her teaching career is not over. Apart from being absolutely outrageous and a travesty of justice, it is a huge unnecessary financial cost for the school.

Solidarity,

Stefan Simms