Ask the union & CPD

Free CPD webinars for all NEU members

School won’t replace my broken glasses

MY prescription glasses were broken by a student. Apparently, the excess of the school insurance is too much, so I will not receive money to replace them. I am unable to see properly and am getting headaches.

This is an unreasonable position for the school to adopt. You urgently need to get the glasses replaced as not having them is impacting on your health, welfare and ability to work and live your normal life.

Regardless of the insurance policy, no member of staff should be out of pocket following actions by a pupil. If the school says it is not worth submitting an insurance claim, then the costs should be covered by the school. If the school still won’t budge, then seek further support from your rep or district.

You may also be covered by the NEU’s insurance for members. Under this policy, members’ glasses are insured up to £1,000 (with an excess of £25). n Visit neu.org.uk/insurance

How soon can I leave my job?

I’ve started a new job but am very unhappy. What happens if I leave the school without working my notice?

This is a difficult situation to find yourself in, as many employment contracts with schools include notice provisions of two or three months. However, as you have just started a new role, your initial months may be subject to a shorter notice provision during a probationary period, so check your contract.

If you are subject to normal notice periods, you could ask to be released early.

IMAGE by fizkes

Some employers may agree to release staff at half term, and knowing that you will only be working there for the next few weeks – rather than three or four months – may make your difficulties more bearable.

If they will not agree to release you early and this is impacting on your health, you might seek medical advice as to whether you are well enough to keep attending.

Homophobic and sexist language going unchallenged

I’VE just started my first teaching assistant job in a primary school and am really concerned about the homophobic and sexist language I hear from children, which often goes unchallenged by the teacher. I’d like to know what I can do.

Homophobic and sexist language needs to be challenged on an ongoing basis and it’s great you are thinking about how to do this. Start by mentioning to the teacher what you have noticed – they may be unaware of the language or comments. Ask what approach the school is taking around preventing and responding to homophobic and sexist language and stereotypes.

The classroom presents lots of ways to help you and colleagues address homophobic and sexist language for each year group. For younger students, the use of stories to develop a sense of empathy is key. With older students, having open conversations exploring the meaning of the negative stereotypes helps to develop an understanding of the impact homophobia and sexism can have on others. n Every Child, Every Family provides ideas about how to build LGBT+ inclusion through reading. Visit neu.org.uk/media/7601/view n It’s not OK is the NEU’s new toolkit to challenge sexism and sexual harassment. Visit

neu.org.uk/end-sexism-sexual-harassment Email educate@neu.org.uk

NEU members have exclusive access to our continuing professional development (CPD) webinars. Here are some of the courses coming up.

Having difficult conversations

Interactive online workshop considering why some conversations are challenging and exploring key communication skills. Aimed at middle and senior leaders, you will leave with a toolkit of strategies to help you deal with difficult conversations. 15 November (part 1) from 4-5.30pm 24 January (part 2) from 4-5.30pm

Using curiosity and wonder to engage learners

Author and speaker Dave Harris will introduce you to the neuroscience that lies behind curiosity, and show how you can use a variety of items of curiosity and wonder to engage learners. For educators working with young people of any age. 16 November from 11am-12.15pm

Introducing leadership and management in education

Exploring the relationship between management and leadership in education, and then looking at the skills needed for both and an analysis of some different models of leadership and management. Suitable for leadership or aspiring leadership members. 22 November from 3.45-5pm

n Webinars are recorded and made available for seven days afterwards for those who have registered, to view at a convenient time. n To book or for more information, email cpd@neu.org.uk or visit neu.org.uk/national-cpd