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SSTA makes history as first Scottish union to join the General Federation of Trade Unions

The General Federation of Trade Unions (GFTU) is proud to announce the historic affiliation of the Scottish Secondary Teachers’ Association (SSTA). The SSTA becomes the first Scottish union ever to join the federation in its 127-year history — a landmark moment for both organisations and for the wider trade union movement.

Founded in 1944, the SSTA is Scotland’s only specialist union for secondary teachers. For more than eight decades, it has been dedicated to advancing education in Scotland, safeguarding professional standards, and promoting the interests of secondary teachers in all matters affecting their working lives and the future of Scottish education.

Seamus Searson, General Secretary of the SSTA, welcomed the decision to affiliate:

“We are delighted to be joining the GFTU. The federation provides invaluable support to specialist trade unions, and its collaborative approach strengthens the voice of unions across the movement. We look forward to playing an active role within this vibrant and growing federation, and to working in solidarity with fellow affiliates to advance the interests of our members and the communities they serve.”

Gawain Little, General Secretary of the GFTU, also welcomed the affiliation:

“I am thrilled to welcome the SSTA to the GFTU family. Education has always been central to our movement’s vision of social progress and equality. Teachers play a fundamental role in shaping a fairer society, and we are proud to stand alongside the SSTA in championing both the profession and the values it represents. Our affiliates look forward to working closely with the SSTA in the years ahead.”

This new affiliation strengthens the GFTU’s growing and diverse membership, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to supporting specialist unions and promoting solidarity across the trade union movement.

Notes for Editors

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About GFTU

The General Federation of Trade Unions (GFTU) was established in 1899 and is currently celebrating its 125th anniversary. GFTU is a democratic federation responsive to the needs of its 27 affiliated trade unions, representing over half a million trade union members. It provides high quality online and residential education via our Educational Trust and training centre in Quorn. GFTU is the home of Strike Map, a worker powered and funded map of industrial action in Great Britain and the island of Ireland.

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