Newry teacher becomes youngest NASUWT President | News in Newry

As the academic year begins NASUWT – The Teachers’ Union has announced the election of its youngest NASUWT Northern Ireland President.

Ronan Sharkey, 30, a music teacher from Newry, takes up his post this month and will spend the next year speaking up for the profession.

The Head of Year at St Ronan’s College, Lurgan, said he would work hard for positive change for teachers and “strive for equality, fair treatment and justice” for NASUWT members.

Mr Sharkey began teaching in 2015 and since then has shown his commitment to ensuring quality education and positive learning environments for all staff and students.

He is a PhD Researcher with Ulster University’s School of Education and is completing an innovative study that seeks to transform the educational landscape in Northern Ireland.

He has been recognised for his leadership knowledge and abilities across the education system and has been actively involved in facilitating leadership training for current and aspiring school leaders.

Ronan’s leadership abilities soon led him to become an active member of NASUWT Northern Ireland and in 2021 he was the recipient of the NASUWT Young Activist of the Year Award.

He represents the NASUWT on the Northern Ireland Teaching Council (NITC), which is the teachers’ side of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee where teachers’ terms and conditions are agreed.

Justin McCamphill  NASUWT National Official for Northern Ireland says, “The NASUWT Northern Ireland are delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Ronan Sharkey as its newest President.

“With an unwavering commitment to education, professional development, and the betterment of the teaching profession, Ronan brings a fresh perspective to this role.

“As a seasoned educator and dedicated advocate for teachers’ rights, his appointment heralds a new era for NASUWT NI, focused on innovation, inclusivity, and progressive change.”

Dr Patrick Roach, NASUWT General Secretary, says, “Ronan is a rising star in the trade union movement who has a deep understanding of the challenges and issues across the education system.

“His knowledge of and commitment to the profession will ensure he will be a fantastic advocate for members in the year ahead.

“I congratulate him on his election as Northern Ireland President and look forward to working with him.”

Ronan Sharkey says, “As I take up this role, I reflect deeply on the conditions we are currently in, both as a consequence of the pandemic, current industrial action, and our current working conditions, and how the voice of the profession is in need of strength moving forward.

“In following a long line of outstanding Presidents, I will continue to strive for equality, fair treatment, and justice for our members and provide strength in times of need.

“I want to celebrate our members and all their personal and professional achievements.”

He adds, “I take this opportunity to pay tribute to NASUWT members for the important work they do each and every day, to make a world of difference to the lives of children and young people”.

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Posted by NewryTimes News on Sep 6 2023. Filed under Community, News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry