Stephen George-Willilams for Branch Committee

I’m a senior education-focused lecturer in the School of Chemistry, with dual training in chemistry and chemistry education research. I currently serve as the Director of First Year (unit coordinator to all CHEM1 units) and have many different research interests, with a common theme of teaching and learning in chemistry

Since 2019, I have had the privilege of holding a continuing education-focused role in a highly supportive environment. I have held the first-year director role, which means I am reasonable for the unit coordination of 2000+ chemistry students. I am keenly aware of the challenges of such high admin loads and am working hard to become a known voice in teaching and learning.

During the recent enterprise bargaining, it became apparent that many education-focused staff are NOT having my experience; Overwork, fixed-term contracts and a general perception of being ‘less than’ traditional TnR roles are commonly raised. With the recent push to hire new education-focused staff, it is critical to ensure that these staff are well protected.

To achieve the above goal (alongside many others), we need a union that is united and focused on these issues, not divided and disenfranchised.

My hope is that with a change in leadership, we can work together to improve the working conditions at the university, thereby enhancing the teaching, learning and research experience for all of our many staff and students.

That’s why I am standing with NTEU Renewal.