Forming an APTT Branch

The APTT came into being through the need for part-time teachers to start doing something for themselves, and about their oft-expressed needs for training, support and advice within the teaching profession. Part-timers generally find their work quite isolating. Few meet other part-time teachers, or get a chance to discuss the "big questions" that form part of day-to-day teaching in the post-compulsory sector. These range from the big political and educational ideas which underpin education, through to the seemingly mundane areas of pay-rates, contractual questions and workers rights.

The APTT was founded by two part-time teachers (Les Booth and Bob Groves) for the sole reason of answering these needs, and to give part-time teachers a voice. The APTT recognises that part-time work is different from full-time work, and that the needs of workers are correspondingly unique. It also recognises that part-time work is often not just a route to a full-time job, but more commonly a permanent way-of-life for many workers. The APTT wishes to promote recognition and respect for part-timers qualifications, skills and achievements, working for an equal say and an equal level of overall rights.

Though at the time of writing we are a small group (around 100 members as of September 2000), we hope that others will also take up the challenge of self-organisation, and join us in what we hope will be a lasting and valuable movement within the teaching profession.

You don't need to join the APTT to do this. You could, in all honesty, just organise meetings within your own work place or teaching group. But we hope that a united front will produce more strength and influence in the long run, and hence being one association is, I believe, a preferable outcome.

Practicalities

If you do wish to form an APTT Branch:

• First: let us know! We'll help all we can.
• Secondly, make informal contact with other part-timers.
  Circulate a general enquiry: find out what people feel about self-help groups, what they would like to see happen in the way of training, events, etc.
• Thirdly, hold a very informal inaugural meeting. Find out what the commitment is.
• Fourthly, contact your local teaching union.
  It's always a good idea to find out their possible response to the arrival of such a "part-timer's group". They might be able to practically help or advise.
• Fifthly, organise a formal structure.
  Someone has to be responsible for the books, meetings, records, etc.
  You don't need much more than an elected chairperson and secretary.
• Finally, prioritise your aims and objectives.
  The most important thing is to get active and productive quickly!

Sound difficult? Well, I can't say it's not hard work. But it's worth it!

Return to Main Page