Dr Andrew Oldham (Hopwood Hall College)

English lecturer / curriculum leader in English, Hopwood Hall College

Election address

I am standing for election to the FE North West seat to continue the transformation I began at Hopwood Hall College as Chair — where we turned a quiet, inactive branch into one of the most engaged and effective in Greater Manchester. From the outset, I recognised the importance of transparent communication and embraced technology to connect and empower members. Together, we built a branch that represents every member's voice and stands firm in solidarity. We have risen because we stand together, fight together, and work together for the benefit of all. 

That unity has achieved tangible results. Our branch won on pay — rising from £31,000 five years ago to just short of £46,000 today — because we stood together and refused to be undervalued. This victory demonstrates the power of collective action and what can be achieved when members believe in their strength and their union. 

I am a proud trade unionist who believes in a progressive, modern union that faces the real challenges our members experience every day: excessive workloads, low pay, overcrowded classes, and threats to wellbeing and mental health. As a former BBC journalist and broadcaster, and now a wellbeing writer, I understand the importance of balance and dignity at work. My goal has always been to build a branch where members have the power and confidence to say "No" to exploitation and "Yes" to fairness, respect, and collective action. 

At Hopwood Hall, we have created a supportive and democratic culture. I have represented members through redundancy consultations, investigations, appeals, disciplinaries, and grievances, always guided by a strong sense of justice and fairness. Under my leadership, we have quadrupled UCU membership and ensured that our branch has a powerful and respected voice within our institution. 

If elected to the NEC, I will continue to fight for a UCU that is bold, modern, and member-led. Our priorities must be clear and focused: 

• Pay - The sector continues to demand fair pay. The AoC has failed to deliver; it is time for the government to negotiate directly with colleges. 

• Workloads - Contact time must be capped to protect both staff and learners. 

• Class Sizes - I will campaign vigorously against the "stack them high" mentality that undermines education and wellbeing. 

• Wellbeing - Wellbeing must be at the heart of everything we do. Branches should support and mentor one another, standing together to improve conditions for all. 

UCU must now move decisively into the twenty-first century — using technology to strengthen organisation, amplify successes, and showcase our achievements. The union must become a central and positive part of professional life for all staff. 

Together, we can build a union that is modern, progressive, and unafraid to lead; that defends staff, values education, and wins lasting change.