NUT to fight on two fronts

MEMBERS of the National Union of Teachers headed for confrontation with the Government yesterday when they ignored the union's leadership and voted on the last day of their annual conference for a ballot on existing appraisal schemes as well as national curriculum tests.

Doug McAvoy, NUT general secretary, made no secret of his dismay at the shock defeat over performance-related pay, emphasising the executive's desire to concentrate on boycotting testing and assessment procedures.

He predicted an overwhelming 'yes' vote in the ballot on testing, but said it would be difficult to win the necessary two-thirds majority to boycott appraisals. Agreements have already been negotiated with most education authorities.

Brighton report, photograph, page 2

Letters, page 19