The NASUWT teaching union is facing mounting controversy and internal division following the appointment of Matt Wrack as its new general secretary, amid accusations of undemocratic procedures and legal impropriety. A legal injunction has now been filed, casting doubt over the legitimacy of the leadership transition in Britain’s second-largest teaching union.
The dispute centers around the union’s decision to bar Neil Butler, the NASUWT’s national officer for Wales, from standing as a candidate—effectively denying members the opportunity to vote in an open election. Butler has launched legal action claiming his exclusion breaches internal rules and undermines democratic process.
Wrack’s Appointment Draws Criticism Over Credentials and Process
Wrack, who previously led the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) for two decades, has no background in education—a fact that has sparked concern among members. He was installed by the NASUWT executive without a member-wide vote, after being named the “preferred candidate” earlier this year. Under the union’s rules, such a candidate is appointed automatically unless challenged by a sufficient number of branch nominations.
Several branches attempted to nominate Butler, a long-time NASUWT employee and former teacher, but were told he was ineligible because he is not a current union member. Supporters argue that the restriction is based on a convention rather than a binding rule and contravenes legal advice previously issued to the union.
Union Members Slam Lack of Transparency
Many NASUWT members have voiced frustration over what they describe as a secretive and undemocratic process. Teacher and NASUWT member Daniel Pearn said, “The biggest sticking point is the lack of an open vote. If members had voted for Wrack, that would have been fair. But they blocked that from happening.”
He added: “Wrack has never been a teacher, and for a teacher-led union, that doesn’t sit right with me. Our representative should come from the profession.”
Concerns Over Political Affiliations and Inclusivity
Wrack’s past alignment with the Labour Party under Jeremy Corbyn has also drawn criticism, particularly among Jewish members. The Partnership for Jewish Schools said his appointment was “deeply troubling,” citing discomfort among Jewish educators due to Wrack’s perceived insensitivity toward allegations of antisemitism during Corbyn’s leadership.
Fears of Union Merger with NEU
Wrack’s selection has reignited speculation over a possible merger between NASUWT and the National Education Union (NEU). While the NEU’s annual conference approved discussions about a merger, NASUWT delegates passed a motion demanding their leadership reaffirm opposition to any union amalgamation.
The NASUWT has declined to comment on the legal action. The outcome of the injunction could have far-reaching consequences for the union’s governance and the broader landscape of education unions in the UK.
