University and College Union

Did you know that the University and College Union, or UCU as it is known, is one of the largest trade unions for academics and support staff in the UK? Standing here in front of its headquarters, you are looking at a building steeped in history, a place where countless stories of education, activism, and solidarity have unfolded. It all started with a merger in 2006 of two existing unions: the Association of University Teachers (AUT) and the National Association of Teachers in Further and Higher Education (NATFHE). The goal was to create a unified voice for educators across the country. But the UCU’s history goes even further back than that. Its roots lie in the early 20th century with the formation of the Association of Teachers in Technical Institutes, focused on providing better conditions for teachers in London’s technical schools. Today, it is a powerful force, advocating for fair pay, reasonable workloads, and better pensions for all academics, from professors to librarians. The UCU has been at the forefront of many struggles including campaigns against the privatization of education and against casualization, promoting the idea that researchers should have stable careers rather than temporary contracts. They have also been involved in controversies including the boycott of Israel, a move that has been both supported and criticized. The UCU has a long and complex history, but one thing remains constant: their commitment to improving the lives of those working in education. As you move on to the next destination on our tour, think about the dedication and passion that this organization represents and the impact it has had on the educational landscape of the UK.