The NASUWT, one of the UK’s largest teaching unions, is set to hold its first contested leadership election since 1990. This follows a legal challenge by Neil Butler, a union official and former teacher, against the unopposed appointment of Matt Wrack, former general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU). Butler’s successful challenge has led to the reopening of nominations and the scheduling of a ballot from 19 June to 23 July 2025.
Wrack, who was endorsed by the NASUWT national executive earlier this year, had been set to assume the role unopposed. However, Butler contested this decision, arguing that the process lacked transparency and fairness. The union’s reversal of its decision, at a legal cost of at least £70,000, has paved the way for a democratic election.
The election presents a stark ideological choice. Wrack is aligned with the political left and has been a prominent figure in trade unionism, while Butler is rooted in the union’s traditional teaching base. The outcome will determine the direction of the NASUWT following Patrick Roach’s early resignation after one term in the role.
As the election approaches, members are closely watching how the union’s leadership will evolve and what impact the new general secretary will have on the future of education policy and teacher representation in the UK.
