1. Professional Associations Produced as part of the Partnership Development Schools (PDS) Strategy Phase 3 2008-09 (Lead PDS: The Park Community School. Contact Chris Ley (cley@parkcommunity.devon.sch.uk)

2. Advice Although it is not obligatory you are strongly advised to join one of the teaching unions: ATL (Association of Teachers and Lecturers) NASUWT (National Union of School Masters/Union of Women Teachers) NUT (National Union of Teachers) In addition there are various subject specific associations which you can find on www.teachernet.gov.uk/professionaldevelopment/profes sionalassociations/subjectassociations www.teachernet.gov.uk/professionaldevelopment/profes sionalassociations/subjectassociations

3. GENERAL TEACHING COUNCIL (GTC)

4. GTC- General Teaching Council There are 4 separate GCTs in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland all with common legislative features relating to requirements for teachers to be registered, regulatory functions and funding methodology

5. Functions –‘Teaching’ not ‘Teachers’ Council required by statutory legislation: “to contribute to improving the standards of teaching and the quality of learning” “to maintain and improve standards of professional conduct amongst teachers, in the interests of the public” –Advise on a range of matters including standards of teaching, teacher recruitment and supply, IT and induction and professional conduct. –Regulatory – if teacher is dismissed they will be summoned to attend a GTC hearing to determine whether or not the teacher should remain on the register. Teachers removed from the register will be unable to work in maintained schools.

6. Registration All teachers must register with GTC to teach in maintained school Current cost £30 per year Right to deduct from teachers salary if not paid

7. Not Substitute For Professional Association Membership Education Act 2002 allows GTC to advise on any matter concerning teacher recruitment and retention Trade unions lobbying Government and GTC to ensure they remain a regulatory body