Stuart David Bond (Runshaw College) - FE NW

Stuart David Bond (Runshaw College) 

Election address 

Building a Stronger Union, Creating a Better Future  

In the past two years, Runshaw College branch has grown by nearly 100% and as Branch Chair it has been my privilege to help. This incredible achievement reflects a collective commitment to standing up for educators and the students we serve. Together, we have built a stronger, louder voice to fight for fair pay, reduced workloads, and better working conditions; now I want to build this beyond Runshaw College, and into our region. I want all NW branches to work together to build the union.  

By growing our membership, amplifying our voices, and standing together, we've shown what is possible. Now, we must build on this momentum to achieve meaningful change for every educator in our region. Together, we can create a fairer, more inclusive future for further education.  

I am passionate about transforming the teaching profession — achieving fair pay, reducing contact hours, and creating workloads that respect educators' wellbeing. These changes are essential to improving both staff retention and the quality of education for our students.  

As an autistic educator, I bring a unique perspective and unwavering focus to the fight for neurodiversity and disability inclusion in education. Too often, these voices are sidelined, but I am determined to ensure they are heard and prioritised. Education thrives on diversity, and our union must lead the way in championing inclusion at every level.  

This is why I am running for the NEC as Northwest FE representative. The NEC must be a voice for educators in the classroom. It must prioritise fair pay, manageable workloads, and the respect our profession deserves. We have already achieved so much together, but there is more to do. Now is the time for action.  

Solidarity is our strength. Together in the NW, we have fought for better pay, challenged harmful policies, and shown what we can achieve when we unite. But we need to push further. The system is broken; only through collective action can we fix it.  

FE has been undervalued for far too long. It is time for the NEC to lead the fight for real change—more funding, more resources, and more respect for the life-changing work we do every day.  

I am supporting Dyfrig Jones as Vice President and Andrew Feeney as Honorary Treasurer and would encourage you to do likewise. Please offer your 1 and 2 votes to Josh Spears and Linda Littler in the UK-elected FE positions.  

Let's stand together and fight for the change we know is possible.  

Stuart Bond, Vocational Course Leader: Business, Runshaw College