It’s never too early or too late to come to Federation activism. In fact, there’s never been a better time
WHO
Kim Hines
Emily Kinder
WORKPLACE
KH: Les Powell School
EK: Bardia Public School
WHEN DID YOU JOIN FEDERATION?
KH: 1985
EK: 2016
HOW DO YOU CONTRIBUTE TO THE UNION?
KH: I’m the Fed Rep at my workplace, relaying information to members via workplace meetings. I’m a Councillor for Camden-Campbelltown Teachers Association. I support Federation in lobbying the government and Education Department for fair funding for our public schools and improved conditions.
EK: I’ve taken part in schools funding and special education campaigns. I’m the Fed Rep at my school and a Councillor for Camden-Campbelltown Association.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT YOUR UNION ACTIVITIES?
KH: I enjoy being part of a group where everyone supports each other; we work together to find strategies and solutions to issues in a positive manner. Plus, there is a wealth of knowledge and experience to draw from.
EK: I enjoy advocating for public education and informing new teachers about what they can be a part of. Union activities allow me to network with other teachers and become involved in wider issues. I enjoy being able to be informed on issues that concern public schools and teachers.
HOW DOES PARTICIPATING IN FEDERATION ACTIVITIES MAKE YOU FEEL?
KH: I feel that I’m not just taking; instead I’m contributing to a collective that strives to improve working conditions for all members and better outcomes for all our students.
EK: Participating in Federation allows me to fight for the many things I am passionate about and feel like I am a part of change.
WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO OFFER/ CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR UNION?
KH: A proactive voice that supports public education, both students and teachers.
EK: As a young teacher in the early years of my career I feel I can relate to young/new teachers coming into the profession who may be interested in becoming an active member of Federation. I can advocate that you can become involved in Federation at any point in your career.
WHAT ISSUES CONCERN YOU?
KH: The manipulation of public education by politicians and private enterprise, school funding cuts and inadequate resources.
EK: Public school funding, students with special needs, teacher salaries and teacher welfare.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR MEMBERS TO PARTICIPATE IN FEDERATION ACTIVITIES?
KH: We need to show a united front and have our voices heard.
EK: I believe it is important for members to participate in Federation activities to build strength and capacity of public schools in NSW. It is important to be involved in something that we are all passionate about and stand together to fight for what is important for our students.
HOW DID YOU FIRST BECOME ACTIVE IN THE UNION?
KH: As a Federation Workplace Committee member, followed by attending Association meetings, Proxy for Council and Women’s Contact.
EK: I became a member of the Federation Workplace Committee and out of curiosity I attended Association meetings. When the Fed Rep left the school I was elected into the role.