On 27 July 2023, a dozen English language teachers and other educational workers gathered in Oxford, UK. We were there for a “Know Your Rights” workshop, hosted by the TEFL Workers’ Union (IWW). It was a relaxed social event in the informal venue of the brilliant Common Ground community cafe in Little Clarendon Street.
Introduction to the TEFL Workers’ Union
Tom, the chair of the union’s steering committee, briefly introduced the TEFL Workers’ Union, a project of the legendary Industrial Workers of the World (IWW). Founded only a few years ago, the IWW TEFL campaign already has hundreds of members and is one of the most active wings of the IWW.
Despite its relative youth, the TEFL Workers’ Union has had an impressive string of victories against unfair dismissals, underpayment, and other kinds of exploitation suffered by teachers and other workers in the English language teaching sector.
The IWW is a proponent of the inclusive “one big union”, welcoming all workers in the industry, from cleaners, maintenance and administrative staff and teachers. (The only exclusion is those involved in hiring and firing.)
What to do if you have a problem at work
We shared our top concerns about our places of employment and conditions of work and discussed strategies for action if we have a problem at work. Spoiler alert, but the first key piece of advice was not to give up and quit!
Essentially, a sensible strategy seemed to be to reach out to workmates for fellowship and support, calling on the union for more specialist advice and representation. We learned that although as workers we often feel powerless, in fact, employers often transgress labour law, and can be held to account in many ways.
In the otherwise increasing gloom of the TEFL workers’ employment landscape, the union’s attitude of fighting for and supporting language school workers was a beacon of hope.
Before the session ended, as EFL workers networked, time was set aside for one-to-ones with workers who had individual issues they wanted advice on.
You can find basic information and advice on a range of employment topics on our website in the Employment Rights section.
The TEFL Workers’ Union runs regular free training events in London and around the UK, and were proud to host our first event in Oxford! We are happy to come and provide sessions on particular issues, (e.g. zero hour contracts). Just get in touch: [email protected]
Free “Labour English” lesson plans!
Tired of teaching English from the point of view of the bosses – otherwise known as ‘Business English’?
Check out some alternative “Labour English” lesson plans, designed to promote the interests of the workers!
Join the TEFL Workers’ Union
Hugh Dellar, teacher, course book writer, and teacher trainer is a long-time supporter of the TEFL Workers’ Union. In a short video, he explains why we should all join a union and get organised.
Be like Hugh! Join the union here.