'Vital' to teach children about unions, says CWU

It is imperative for teachers to educate children about the role that trade unions play in the workplace, it has been suggested.

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) has put forward a motion at the Trades Union Congress that pupils should be equipped with this knowledge to prepare them for the world of work.

It is important that young people learn about union membership as well as their right to strike, it noted.

"It is vital that we address the lack of understanding of the role that trade unions play if young people are to be properly protected at work," stated general secretary of the CWU Billy Hayes.

A number of different unions are available for teachers throughout the UK to join. These include the Association of Teachers and Lecturers, the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers and the National Union of Teachers.