STEVE SINNOTT

1951-2008

Your Tributes

Steve worked extremely hard for the union and was dedicated to his job. His premature death is a sad loss and I send my deepest sympathy to Steve's family, colleagues and friends at this difficult time. Pauline Coulson – Lincolnshire

Steve was a wonderful support to me when I was a newly qualified teacher in Blackburn. He gave me the inspiration to keep going. He was so passionate about getting a good education for children and ensuring that us teachers had a fair deal too. I feel very proud to have known him and send my thoughts and prayers to his family at this difficult time. Jo Williams – Lancashire

I met Steve as a young teacher in Preston 1976/7 ish at union meetings and was always impressed by his warm manner but sure political values. My own husband died in the same tragic manner six years ago and I just want to pass on a message of support to his family and friends and colleagues. Steve will be sadly missed but not ever forgotten because of all his achievements and his profound though sometimes fleeting affect on others. Jane Tomson – Lancashire

A very sad loss to his family, friends and brothers and sisters in union. He was a very caring man, his commitment to teachers and education will be widely remembered. Norma Rowbotham – Barnsley

Steve, we will remember your name. You cared for people, especially the vulnerable ones. I remember the support you gave to the OTTs. To the family, we all share your grief - with time we shall heal. Rest in peace Steve! Hendrina Quinnen – Birmingham

A remembrance of support for members, commitment to the profession an also a balanced and fair view of the issues. Thank you for your contribution. Grace Knight – Enfield

Goodbye, my friend. Bob Allonby – Hyndburn & Ribble Valley Association

To Steve's Family, our hearts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Steve was a fantastic and extremely passionate, genuine person. He is missed by so many. Through the turmoil of the death of my own son I have found some comfort in Henry Scott Holland’s outlook on death (Professor of Divinity, Oxford University). He says: - .....I have only slipped away into the next room. I am I, and you are you. Whatever we were to each other, that we still are. Call me by my old familiar name, speak to me in the easy way you always used. Wear no air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together. Play, smile, think of me, pray for me. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. Let it be spoken without the ghost of a shadow on it. Life means all that it ever meant…There is absolutely unbroken continuity. What is death but a negligible accident? Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am waiting for you - for an interval - somewhere near just around the corner. All is well. I hope and pray you find comfort in these words too. Look after each other. Love Jackie and Birmingham Assoiciation of the NUT Black Teachers' Group x Jackie Ranger – Birmingham

Dear Steve we just can’t believe we’re not going to see you again because you and Mary have been part of our lives since 1986. You were vice-chair whilst John was chair of Membership and Communications, when you were President you invited us to join you and Mary so that we would know what to do when it was John’s turn to be President, so typical of your generosity, and more recently worked with Hilary during her time as President. Over the years we have had some memorable times, such as in 1997 when Hilary’s school was ignored by the officials of Sandwell LEA, despite being the first Sandwell school to be removed from special measures, you made the time to visit and congratulate the children and staff. It meant so much to Hilary that she had the photo of your visit on her office wall in school and later in the President’s office. The private tie swap joke with John! We were so delighted to return your silk tie to you on the day you were elected General Secretary. More recently, your bravery in confronting less than friendly university lecturers in Palestine, it would have been so easy to just agree with them, but not you, you made the case for co-operation and won them over and finally, all those happy times sharing photos of our grandsons on our mobile phones. Much love to Mary and the family, written with tears of sadness but with many happy memories. Past Presidents - John and Hilary Bills

I met Steve a few years ago at our local conference and found him to be an extremely confident and passionate speaker. He was a man with a great vision and wanted everyone to be part of this alongside him. I have no doubt that his sudden death has left a great void both within the NUT and to his devoted and loving family. The greatest tribute we can show to Steve is to be fully 100% behind the forthcoming strike action and show to him that everything he stood for in life really did matter to us all. Anna Bass – Medway

I lost both my parents to strokes when I was in teacher training (I was 30 and then 38 Y.O.). I have newer forgotten the feeling of loss, but finally found that although we annoyed each other, I feel they are looking out for me and are with me always. Mary and family,I hope you find your comfort....time helps. David Little – Surrey

Too young to die, he'll be missed by many. Stuart McNamara – Enfield

I did not know Steve personally, only in my role as a member of the NUT and as one of the many teachers for whom Steve put in so much effort and support. I just wanted to pass on my condolences to Steve's family and to his close friends and to add that, from what I have learnt of Steve and his commitment to many valuable causes, he must have been a very special man to know! So sorry to hear of your sad loss! Helen Osborne - Surrey

I am very saddened by the sudden loss off Mr Sinnott. I only knew him as a an inspirational teacher at Broughton High school in Preston but what an effect he had on all students at the school. Everyone knew Mr Sinnott. Both myself and my sister who attended all 5 years at Broughton High school are deeply upset at his loss and I will always remember him. He made Economics sound interesting, need i say more... Glenn and Wendy Smith - Preston

A first class leader who was inspirational to all. Thoughts go to his family at this very difficult time. Christina Howard - Isle of Wight

Dear Steve Thank you for all the years you have devoted to education and your NUT members. My deepest sympathy to his family and friends. Mr Rene Koglbauer - Oxfordshire

A sad and sudden loss for his family, my sincere condolences to all his friends aand colleagues. Myrette Macintyre - Newham

I feel his loss both as a good friend and as a leader of our Union who had made such an impact on education both in this country and on the international scene.My deepest condolances to Steve's family who have lost a loving husband and father. Rob Henderson - BRaNES

Deep shock at the loss of such a shrewd and vibrant leader who kept his feet on the ground and his aims in the sky. Wonderful memories of chauffeuring him around Derbyshire in my MG. Thanks Steve, you were the best. Alison Yarrow (Wilkinson) - Derbyshire

Steve was a wonderful person - I got to know him through his passionate commitment to education in developing countries and the tireless way in which he supported the Global Campaign for Education. Last time I saw Steve was in a meeting in DFID a couple of weeks before he died. He said to the minister, "and of course we know Sarah, she's a mate," which I took as the highest compliment. To be a mate of Steve was something really special. He was a wonderful person and his family are in my thoughts. Sarah Kline - Wandsworth

I first came across Steve when he taught at Broughton High School in Preston, and I taught at a neighbouring College. His passion about teacher welfare and rights was deep felt and passionate. He taught my daughter - and it was clear to me that he cared deeply about each student as an individual - to me the hallmark of a good eacher. He was invited back to the school's awards evening, when his talk was passionate, and witty He will be missed, and I would like to extend my sympathy not just to his colleagues in the union, but to his family. Ian Haselden - Lancashire

Thank you for your inspiring leadership over the years - you will be very sadly missed. Carol Longstaff - Sunderland LA

Os homens não precisam de realizar grandes acções para terem o seu lugar de reconhecimento... em pequenos gestos e atitudes vão se criando grandes mundos... o Dr. Steve criou o seu mundo. Luis Mesquita da Fonseca - Portugal

I worked at the NUT when Steve was an executive member not General Secretary. I would just like to say to Mary, Steve and Katie that I am thinking of you at this time. Louise Bearsby - Ex NUT Colleague

I was deeply shocked and upset to hear the sad news of Steve's death. He worked hard for teachers for many years and I would like to say how much it was appreciated. The strike on Thursday will be in his honour! My sympathy goes out to his family at this sad time. Kathryn Fitzsimmons - Camden

I was so saddened to hear of Steve's untimely passing. He was an exemplary and motivational leader of the NUT. He will be sorely missed. My condolences to his family. Sue Bunyar - Bath and north east somerset

Great sadness at the death of a good comrade Ann N Fergusson - Barnet retired

What can I say? So much has been said already which I would echo. We in Derbyshire have been shocked at losing Steve, a man who always described himself as 'among friends' when he came to visit us here or at Conference receptions. He will be very greatly missed by us all, but we reserve our special thoughts for Mary and their two children. Yes, he was a 'smashing' man, but he was far, far more than that. He will live on. John Holmes. John Holmes - Derbyshire Division and National Executive

On behalf of the 40 NUT members at Phoenix High school, I send our deepest sympathy to Steve's family. He spoke recently at our AGM held at Phoenix on the Pay Claim. In particular he expressed how he understood the difficulties of young people remembering his own experience with a young family. In fact, whenever I heard Steve speak, he always refered to his family and how he understood the lives of ordinary teachers. He will be sorely missed by us all. Clare Maloney (NUT representative) Clare Maloney - Hammersmith & Fulham

I never had any dealings whatever with Steve Sinnott, but, even via the pages of a magazine, his zeal and passion for a fair world shone through. It is remarkable how a good man can reach so many people. Anita Gallaway - Warwickshire

You did so much for so many. Thank you. You will be sadly missed by a great number of people. Alex Fairclough - Lancashire

We at Victoria House were all very saddened to hear of Steve's untimely passing. I know he will be greatly missed by the union and all its members and we would like to send our condolences to his family and friends. Ron Miller - Victoria House Printing Co.

Thank you for inspiring me into affirmative action whilst keeping the passion for teaching alive. Arlene - Hammersmith and Fulham

Steve was often willing to travel down to Southampton even when he was warned in his DGS days, that an AGM or meeting would probably only just be quorate. Steve had no airs or graces, even when he became GS and that is what I admired. Best memory - waiting at Grantham Station for a taxi to Stoke Rochford, when Steve was already in a taxi with other full time oficers. "Hop in, Pete. How are things? What is it like in your school at the moment? Steve was a good listener! Steve was passionate about the Union and best of all, made us feel valued as NUT lay officers. I will miss you Steve, and so will Southampton NUT members. Pete Sopowski - Southampton

I spoke with Steve when he came to visit us for a talk in the Parkway Hotel Cwmbran for the Monmouth division. My partner and I were deeply saddened by his untimely departure. As a newbie (NQT)I have not been in the union long but I relished the thought of belonging to a union that had such a strong and passionate caring leader. I found it hard to believe especially after seeing Steve in Manchester at the conference. My thoughts are with his family who must miss him dearly. Mark Hawes Mark Hawes - Newport

Such shocking, sad news. Somebody that worked so hard for teachers - somebody that still believed in them! My thoughts go out to his family. Nicola Baughan - Sutton

It was with deep sadness that I heard of the death of Steve Sinnott. My condolenses go to both his family and friends. He is a great loss to the NUT and it's members. Cathy Welsh - Hammersmith and Fulham

I have known Steve for many years. It will be virtually impossible to replace Steve, a man of impeccable integrity and charisma. Dil Bola - City of Derby

I am deeply saddened by the death of Steve Sinnott. He was an inspiring leader who by this leadership caused me to return to the NUT, and to take up the challenge of being the school representative. My thoughts go to his family. Lawrence Davies – Bristol

I had the honour of speaking to and meeting with Steve on several occasions in my administrative role at NATFHE. He was an official of NUT and later the General Secretary. He did not speak to my job title or my "rank", he spoke to me, albeit about the business at hand, but nevertheless that made him stand out especially when it became clear over time this was not a front,he was genuine and straight up and wanted to get the job done. My heartfelt condolences go to Mary and their children, and all of his extended family at the NUT, those working in education and all trade unionists - I believe thats how he saw it. Trudy – PA to the General Secretary, NATFHE (now at UCU)

An inspirational and totally dedicated professional who reminded me, in a staff meeting, that teaching 'was the best job in the world'. I have used this message and acknowledged it to Steve numerous times when addressing staff meetings. Your memory will live on, God bless. John Topping - Local area authority: Blackpool

His untimely death is extremely sad. He made a great contribution to the NUT in his time as General Secretary and his legacy to us is a more united, collaborative and campaigning union focused on bettering education for all. Also he has been enormously supportive to the Anti Academies Alliance, of which I am an officer, without his support there simply would not be a national campaign against academies. I will miss his integrity and commitment. Andrew Baisley - Camden

As NUT members, we all felt truly supported in the knowledge that Steve Sinnott was leading the way. He was passionate about the cause and stood for us all; he was our collective voice, our heart and our mind. We shall miss his inspiration, warmth and dynamism. Leah Tomlin – Bristol

Both the same age, both passionate about education. Thanks for sharing that passion with the nation in such an eloquent manner that both government and the public listened to us again. Having met you and heard you speak about the plight of teachers in other countries it also made me even more proud to be an NUT member. Bev Noyce – Torbay

He will be missed. Elysa Alton – Bexley

I was very saddened to hear about Steve Sinnotts sudden death. I would wish to send my condolences to his family friends and colleagues. He was a very special man and an excellent General Secretary. He will be much missed by the NUT membership. Christine Hill – Hampshire

Steve was well known to us in the Canterbury and District Association. Over the years he visited us on at least half a dozen occasions and, most recently,spent a day with us visiting schools and telking with members. He left a lasting impression of someone who was committed to education and teachers and who was a thoroughly nice man. We shall miss him and we send our sincere sympathies to his family and to the National Union. John Walder – Kent

A man of passion, a man of virtue, a man of courage. A true leader. Always protecting the professionals he serves. Always striving for the greater good. Rest in Peace. Robert Blackmore – Liverpool

Thoughts and prayers to Steve's family. Sacha Slavic – Coventry

I went to school with Steve at West Derby Comprehensive in Liverpool. I remember his passion for football & Everton F.C. I was pleased to see how well he did as General Secretary of the NUT. My sympathy goes to his wife & family. Sincerely, Colin Barron NUT Member – Milton Keynes

While Steve has rightly been credited with his international influence, I believe he deserves equal if not greater regard for his unprecedented skill in uniting the deep political divisions within the NUT. I stood down from the Executive in 1994, having discussed with Steve the internal divisions which seemed blind to the real external threats we faced. But Steve persevered and has made a genuine difference. Few of us can look back and say as much. Janet Sturgis – East Sussex & Kent

A very very sad loss to his family. A good father and husband and doubtless a good teacher. Sadly he may not be remembered for all his good actions only his bad ones. Jon Plume – Norfolk

Never have I a met a boss that could treat every member of his staff so equally, from the Directors down to ordinary lay staff. I really felt a valuable member of staff because of Steve and will miss his bright and cheerful 'hello Chris' (I think he knew all our names here at HQ!). I send my condolences to his family. Christine Austin – NUT staff

Steve Sinnott will be sorely missed by the children and teachers in Britain. You felt Education was safe in his hands. My condolances go to Steve's family. Cathy Crowley – Ex S.E. Essex now Greece

I first met Steve at a Lancashire Division Executive meeting 26 years ago. I was bemoaning the fact that I had 41 children in my Reception Class and his response (try to imagine this in a scouse accent much stronger than in later years) was, "that must be murder!" My Geordie friend asked what he meant and I replied, "I think it's French!" The week before he died, Steve sent me a card to mark my retirment and asked if I'd finally forgiven him for once putting the wrong date in his diary and not turning up to speak at a Wyre Association meeting - an incident I'd long forgotten. However, no forgiveness is needed from a bloke who died with so much accomplished but, tragically, with dreams unfulfilled. Latterly, whenever we met, we shared the joys and pride of being grandparents.! To Mary and the family, my sincere sympathy. To the union he was an inspirational leader, a champion for education nationally and internationally, but to you he was much, much more. My thoughts are with you. Margaret Lund – Wyre

Steve was a very good friend to all of us here in Hyndburn & Ribble Valley Association. He was always willing to come up to Lancashire to speak at meetings and spend time with friends and colleagues. We always felt that he was a General Secretary to be proud of. Our condolences go to Mary and the family. He will be much missed by many people who loved him dearly. Bob Allonby – Lancashire

Steve was a hero to me and the entire humanity. His pursuit of justice helped to rewrite the history of teaching personnel teachers who were badly mistreated by the agency. Steve you have accomplished your mission to the satisfaction of all who got to know you. God bless your soul. Julius Ssonko – Camden

I was shocked to hear about Steve Sinnott's death only today 24th April, at the meeting after the march to Central Hall, Westminster. My thoughts are with those closest to him. May you take solace in the knowledge of the good works he did while he was with us, and that he was well liked. Rosemund Pretoru – Southwark

An inspiration to us all. Lucy Pearson – Oxfordshire

Working with Steve many years ago at Broughton High School was fun. Working with someone with so much energy in the NUT was quite inspirational. He was always the consummate professional with a sense of humour second to none. His commitment to justice and to education was an example to everyone. I know he will be sorely missed. Maureen Harrison – Lancashire

Steve, Your legacy will live on and we hope to keep up your inspirational progress. Rest In Peace. Another Angel in Heaven. Anne Shedden – Milton Keynes

Thinking of Steve's family. Jayne L Slymn – Walsall

I met Steve as a member of the NUT group whom he led on a visit to Cuba in 1998. Like other members I found him to be warm, generous and friendly and I was delighted when he later became General Secretary. My thoughts are with his family and all who worked with in the NUT. Deborah Stene – Kensington and Chelsea

A sad loss for the NUT but, believe me, life goes on in other spheres. Our loss is their gain. Farewell, Steve and off to a brighter future! Stephen Blake – Lewisham

I met Steve Sinnott as part of the first International Development Union Education workshop held in 2005. As a new teacher, I was in awe and quite nervous when it came to speaking to him directly. But at the end of the day's session we had an informal chat, and it struck me how down to earth he was. He showed genuine concern for all teachers. He inspired myself and some colleagues to march at the MakePovertyHistory rally in Edinburgh in 2005. I was disturbed to hear of his passing, and hope that his passion for all things in education continue to inspire the future workings of the NUT promoting his legacy of a union that cares not only about its members, but of all educators and children worldwide. Hans Svennevig

Life is just so unfair sometimes! Just as the union is united and fighting back. Steve, I hope you are watching all this and cheering, up there. Caryl Hughes – Stockport

As a teacher and NUT member since 1976 I have a great debt of gratitude for Steve. I had the privilege of meeting him a number of times and knew him to be a 'people person' who made time for teacher colleagues and their issues. I also stood on the steps of County Hall with Steve during the last NUT strike action. His words then summed up the importance of supporting teachers to make children's lives the best they can be. Thank you Steve - your work will continue through those of us left behind. Helen Harrison – Lancashire

Thank you for all your hard work for teachers all over the world. I was particularly touched by your work for teacher unions abroad - we should remember our colleagues who aren't even allowed to join a union - you always did. You will be remembered, Helen. Helen Ball – Wokingham

Shocked and sorry. Thanks for such dedication and honest dealings. I appreciate much of family life must have been affected by Steve's commitment and want to thank them. Wilma Shaw – Lancaster

I was saddened by the news of Steve's death. He was committed to teachers and children alike and is a great loss to the NUT. My sympathy to his family, friends and others who knew him personally. Kathleen Tuck – North Herts.

So very sorry to hear of Steve Sinnott's death. I appreciate all that he was trying to do for the union and all his hard work. My sympathy goes to his family. Janis Parker – Kingston on Thames

I was shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden death of - as we always called him Mr Sinnott. I'm not a teacher but a past pupil many years ago, at Broughton High School nr Preston. I remember that he could do what all good teachers can do and that is to engage ALL the pupils in his class. His lessons were fun, busy and most importantly looking back informative. A sad loss and my best wishes go to his family and friends. Jon – Devon

I did not know Steve well, my involvement as a Division Secretary began at the same time as he became General Secretary. There are some people who you instinctively know are real. He was one, and I know he had integrity. As a practicing teacher I think the biggest compliment I could pay Steve is that I would have loved to have worked with him as a colleague. I was so proud of the action we took and I am saddened that he was not able to be there to witness what is undoubtedly something he would have been proud of. Having looked at the pictures this evening and spoken to other teachers it is with great pride that I think about him as our leader. He was also my leader and I trusted him. Spencer Barnshaw – Wandsworth

I have only recently come to work for the NUT but having Steve as my line manager has been something I will remember fondly. His ability to pick up a conversation where he left off weeks or months before was a real scouse talent! He always started by asking about my kids and was absolutely adament that my job should not come between me and family life - something that from many would be trite but from Steve was absolutely genuine. I regret not having longer to work with him but my loss is miniscule to that of his family to whom my heart goes out. Having read the tributes to him, I'm sure they can be in no doubt that Steve has left a lastng mark on Britsh Trades Unionism, not to mention all of the other realms of his life and activity. 24th April will go down in history, and alongside it will be Steve's name - his positive and unifying approach made the day such a positive experience for all of us who took part. Mary and the family can be rightly proud. Lynn Collins– NUT Midlands Region

Steve’s sudden death shocked and saddened us and it has taken some time to gather our thoughts. We knew Steve a little and held him in high esteem. Now we would like to remember discussions and exchanges in detail. But whether you knew him or not it seems like most people felt they knew him – he was that kind of person. In the union and political world, ironically, it is hard to be about people and not yourself but Steve was that rare person who was just that – straight to the point and a strong sense of the right thing to aim for and the right thing to do. Steve was good at reaching out to and including people – it has come through in all the tributes. We need to follow this lead and to reach out to everyone in the profession and education, to secure unity. Some task, but vital for progress and what Steve was all about. If unity had demanded that Steve had to give up a position or a title does anyone doubt he would have done it? To secure that unity would be the best tribute of all. John and Annwen Rigby – London

Steve was a superb advert for all that we hold dear about our union. He battled not just for teachers but for education. I will remember him for his principles, of course, but mostly for his warmth. His people skills were second to none. My deepest condolences to his family. Campbell Russell – Cheshire

I met Steve personally several times when he visited the City of York Association, as well as hearing him at conference. His passion for the union and his service of it, and for justice for teachers and children in the UK and throughout the world was very evident. Hilary Shepherd – City of York

I am deeply sorry to learn of Steve's death and know how much he meant to his colleagues, friends and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Trevor Davies – Oxfordshire

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