We champion women’s development and leadership at Community, and want to empower more women to come forward and become active in their union. As part of our Women in Leadership series, we are shining a spotlight on some of our members who are making a difference in their workplace. The second profile in our series is Jane Hetherington, who sits on our NEC as an Education and Early Years sector representative.
My name is Jane Hetherington and I was a full time Junior School (KS2) teacher until 2009 when I became part time and took on the Branch Secretary role for Birmingham Schools. In 2020 circumstances led me out of the classroom but I continued as Branch Secretary as Voice merged into Community. Last year I was nominated to the NEC.
I have been a union activist since 1987 when I was a student at teacher training college.
Supporting members (and their employers) to know their employment rights and learn more about improving their own and everyone’s working life is what we, as union reps, strive for.
I love seeing new activists come forward and sharing their voice. Nurturing people is what teachers should do automatically and it’s the same with union activism.
Whilst there are issues I feel very passionate about I haven’t always felt confident enough to push myself forward and my advice would be to say yes when opportunities arise.
Imposter syndrome is something that holds us back but we all have something to share and teach others about. It’s crucial to listen and learn too.
My advice: listen, learn, share, teach and say yes…#
The photo attached is from the Birmingham Pride Parade 2025 which was a brilliant day out with our wonderful members and staff.
At Community, we whole heartedly encourage our women members, no matter what sector or industry you work for, to get more involved in the union and fight for real, lasting change. Find out more about our campaigns and how you can help us to secure better rights and policy for women workers across the UK today.
© Community Trade Union 2025
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