ORGANISING ACADEMY

Richard Marshall

Age: 23

Sponsoring union: ATL

Richard trained as a primary school teacher straight from sixth form college and continued teaching for two years. He lost enthusiasm due to the lack of teaching opportunities in the North East and his experience as a long-term supply teacher. However, it was by no means all bad, as teaching enabled Richard to develop useful skills, his confidence and a sense of humour. Through teaching, he also got involved with ATL, initially as a student rep and attended annual conference. He was subsequently roped into the ‘youth’ committee and became Convenor of ATL Future. Richard has since held a variety of posts including Executive Member and ULR.

When considering his next move, Richard asked himself what he most enjoyed doing and the answer was his union work.  Following some enquiries, he found out about the TUC Organising Academy, attended the Development Centre in Newcastle, and a new career beckoned.

Richard believes that unions have a lot to give members and is looking forward to being a part of that process. He wants to support members in their development in order for ATL to become a successful organising union.

Something interesting: Richard was also a tap dancer and onstage performer throughout school and university. He hopes to become the Academy’s first tap dancing Organiser.

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