STEVE SINNOTT

1951-2008

Your Tributes

Steve was a champion of children and of teachers, not just in Britain but all over the world. He gave support to Cuba, recognising its achievements in education and health and calling for an end to the US blockade. He also spoke up for teachers in other countries who were being persecuted by opprssive regimes. His support for campaigns such Landmine Action inspired many schools to take action on this vital issue. His death is a tragic loss; the best tribute we can make to him will be to fight with greater detmination and energy for education, peace and justice. Maisie Carter – Merton

A standing ovation for Steve Sinnott at the recent rally in Rutland Street, Leicester, on Thursday's day of strike action. We stood to show our appreciation to a man who stood up for us. A great loss - our sympathies to Mr Sinnott's family. NUT members from South Wigston High School, Leicester – Abby Horton – Leics

A great loss. You were the best. Adrienne Roche – Camden

From Croydon Trades Union Council. We are very sad to see the premature death of a good comrade. The day of action on 24 April should stand a testament to Steve. As a PCS member also on Strike, I was proud to stand alongside my conrades in the teaching profession and appreciate the hard work Steve put into acheiving this joint action. Jon Morgan – Secretary Croydon TUC

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Steve's death. I feel as though I have lost a friend. My thoughts are with his family who have lost so much more than me. Margaaret Farnell – Somerset

For some reason throughout my teaching career which began in 1984, your name has always been there. Definitely born ordinary but made an enormous impact to all in education. Heart felt thoughts to the family at this time. Shila Patel – Hertfordshire

Very sad to hear of Steve's death. He will be greatly missed. Anne Scott – Salford

Saddened to hear of his passing. Gavin Gray – Medway

We are writing to express our sympathy on hearing the news of Steve Sinnott's death; it was a tremendous shock to learn of his sudden and premature passing. Our father, Jack Jones, was an active member of the Union most of his life, and President in 1971/2. When he became ill in 1995, Steve very kindly came to visit him with Jeane Richardson. Dad was determined to be up and dressed when he knew they were coming. He enjoyed their visit so much and it cheered him up tremendously. At that time Steve was Deputy General Secretary; he kindly read a poem at Dad's funeral which Dad had chosen himself and he was very supportive to us. We remember him with very great warmth and affection. Brenda Serre and Elizabeth Springett

Maggi and I have lost a dear friend when Steve died. Steve and the NUT were always very helpful to old colleagues and the Ulster Teachers' Union. He will be sorely missed by all his friends in the world of teacher unions. Ray Calvin – Ex-General Secretary of the Ulster Teachers'

A man of integrity, courage and humanity. The comments in tribute, here, say it all - he will be sadly missed by so many. Jenny Watts

What a loss to Education and human rapprochement. You did a great job for teachers and children Steve, thank you. The impetus of your work will be carried forward by others. Like your father, my father was a lifelong trade unionist as I am. The NUT and people of vision, as you were, working together will change the world for the better. Your love of humanity was inspirational. You will be sorely missed. Love and courage to Steve's family. Pauline Noel – Staffordshire

Steves dedication to teaching and fairness, through the NUT will be greatly missed. Words are a poor substitute for what I feel as a fellow of the teaching profession, and as a supporter of the fairness that Steve stood for... Vanessa Purnell – Newport City

I won't forget the first time I met Steve, I arranged a meeting and very few members came, for the deputy general secretary at that! I was mortified but Steve was totally unfazed and very encouraging. Telling me I'd enjoy being an association secretary. So thank you Steve, for your encouragement, the positive and friendly way you talked to me whenever we met was really appreciated. You were definitely one of the 'good guys'. Neil Hancox – West Lancashire

An inspiring leader who never forgot his roots. Peter Byatt – Lowestoft Association

Today I heard that 7.5 million children joined in the World's Biggest Lesson on 24th April. This amazing simultaneous event around the world took place because of people like Steve Sinnott. Steve inspired me and many other teachers with his passionate commitment to education for all the world's children. Last week children around the globe continued the Send my Friend to School campaign and we owe it to Steve to make education for all a reality. Thank you Steve, we will continue the campaign until your dream becomes a reality. John Pritchard – Herefordshire

At a time when I felt least valued by members of my department, Steve Sinnott believed in me. He gave me the courage to face my insecurities and challenge those who I believed were bullying me. At an interview for a job in his department he led me to believe that I was over qualified when others made me feel inadequate. This led me to find the courage to leave the Union and seek employment elsewhere - finally realising my dream to become an IT Training Consultant. Thank you Steve - you will be foremost in my memories. Susan Willoughby

I was away over Easter and was shocked to read the newspaper on my return flight. Steve was a very nice man, and genuine in his care for members. I'll always remember attending a round table meeting when we drafted the charter for Black Boys and the lunch was...unimpressive. We gave him grief about the lack of cultural food which he took in good humour and promised rice and peas and chicken the next time! Jennifer Rowe – Manchester

Steve had a remarkable ability to remember people he met. It was wonderful to meet him alone on his way to yet another reception and for him to cross the road to greet his colleagues. That is what I always recognised with Steve - he was a colleague whom I admired for his dedication to children and his fellow colleagues. It was truely smashing to be in his company. Liam Gardiner – Redcar and Cleveland

A sad loss to the world of education and the NUT. Stuart Pick – Manchester

I would like to express my most sincere sympathy to the family of Steve Sinnott at this very sad time. He came across as a dynamic, passionate and caring person and I truly appreciate the enormous effort he made on my behalf, as a member of the NUT. Thank you Steve. Kath Sifleet – Norfolk

This terrible tragedy should not have happened to someone so young and who has devoted so much time to others. There should have been time for you to enjoy and to relax with your family. Fond memories. Wayne & Alison Chivers – Suffolk & Essex

Steve rose above the mundane, he had a clear vision and a patient determination that will be greatly missed. A kind and generous man who touched many of our lives. David Knight – Lancashire

Steve's death came as a great shock. Though I never met him, his commitment to education and to children and young people always shone through in contribution to debate, his appearances on television and the articles he wrote. The union and the profession are much the poorer for his departure. We are fortunate to have had Steve as our leader, for all too brief a period. John Burrough – Somerset

I didn't know Steve but I do know he worked tirelessly for teachers and for that we should be very grateful. John Walden – Beds

I saw Steve as being a driving force in education, standing up for the forgotten rights of the teacher, as well as pushing forward the idea that teachers do actually know their jobs, and the paper pushers at thetop of the pile should actually let us get on with our jobs. Thank you for seeing us as the professionals we work hard to be. Taken from us too early, you will be sadly missed. Sally Ann Wilcher – Cambridgeshire

After the Brent Teachers Association meeting today we would like to add our condolences. Steve was a friend of Brent long before he became General Secretary. He attended many general meetings and special events and supported schools that were in difficulties. His presence was always welcome and inspiring. As General Secretary he decided to use all the talents of members of the Union no matter what section of the Union they belong to. He made the Union into a united body and we hope that whoever takes over will continue to build on the foundations. He was an internationalist and so helped unions in Africa, the Middle East etc. May he rest in peace. Anne Perez – Brent

All my sympathy is with Steve Sinnotts family. Miss Perera – Greenwich

I still find it hard to believe that I will not hear those words you were so proud of, "Steve Sinnott General Secretary of the National Union of Teachers", but I will not forget them. Every time I heard them my mind went back over 20 years to St Annes on Sea when "Stock of the Fylde", a wise man, told me that boy can lead this union. How right he was. He had already noted your passion for education, your ability to get things done and your optimism (being a blue it helps). You have done so much good in such a short time, it is up to us in the union to live up to the high standards you have set. I am proud to have known you and worked with you. Eddie Ritson – Sefton and National Executive

Steve was a tremendous colleague and I will never forget his visits when I worked in the Northern Region. I am proud to call him friend and his committment was so great that very many teachers around the world will never appreciate just what he achieved on their behalf. I ever there was a man who could be relied upon it was Steve. He will always be remembered. Terry Buckler – Retired

".....just when we needed you most!" Thoughts go to family and friends - remember him well! Janet Lee – Newham

Very sad news. Steves letters to NUT members were inspirational. He will be missed. Julie Lees – Wolverhampton

On my desk I have a present from a child, a coaster that says, “To teach is to touch a life forever…..” Steve touched the life of everyone that knew or knew of him. He must have met thousands of individuals as General Secretary of the NUT (it makes me smile when I think of him saying that with ‘that' grin) but he always had time for a word or a smile when I met him at Division Secretaries' meetings or National Conference. Under his leadership the union was united and strong and set for even greater achievements. Like all exemplary teachers, Steve excited, inspired, moved us forward and left us eagerly anticipating more. What a loss that our lesson and his teaching was over too quickly. Forever, in the annals of the NUT, TUC, schools and all the organisations he worked with, Steve will be remembered as a good trade unionist, a good General Secretary, an exemplary teacher but, above all a good man who will be greatly missed. With love and best wishes to Mary and all of the family as well as all those who knew him well and must miss him so much. xxx June Brown – Hampshire Division

Steve was a peaceful man, humble and kind. He cared for all in came into contact with, making sure he remembered you by your first name, a real inspiration. May his light continue to shine for his all of his family and friends. Blessed Love Sandra Mitchell - banut

I met Steve through the Charter for Black Boys –NUT –2006. I attended with other colleagues from the London borough of Redbridge. These are my comments: A truly amazing and understanding person who was sincerely committed to equality issues. A person who was solely dedicated to the role of the teacher, attending our Black teachers conference in NCSL on a Saturday- he inspired us and listened keenly to the comments and questions from the floor. He was humble in his conversations and his warm smile complemented a generous disposition. Barbara Roy-Macauley - L.B. Redbridge

After reading all the personal messages, it feels odd writing this message. I did not know Steve Sinnott personally but was shocked by the news of his sudden death. He worked tirelessly for teachers and the work that he has done must continue. You will be missed, Steve. Paul Lambert – Sheffield

Steve you are a great man..you were taken from us to soon. We will carry on on your good work. Thank you for being an inspiration. Sumon Thakur – Hackney

I am deeply saddened at this news - which I read in my unions PCS magazine today. I will always remember my economics teacher from back in the 80s and when I saw him on TV I felt very proud that a teacher, who I had been privileged enough to learn from, had done so well! Although I don't know them may I express my condolences to his family. Sarah Koziarska – Old pupil Broughton High

In attending my 1st NUT Conference this Easter I am privileged to have had the opportunity to hear Steve speak. He spoke with grace, eloquence and passion. He showed himself to be a man of great insight and principle, determined to strive for what is fair and just for all. He shall be sorely missed. Desiree Gill - Hounslow

The atmospere of unity at the Manchester Conference is a tribute to Steve's work as General Secretary. I am proud to belong to a Union that had such a great leader. I will always remember the times I met him and feel he has inspired us all to carry on campaigning for fair systems of education throughout the world. My thoughts are with Mary and his family. Jane Millership - Thurrock

My thoughts are with your family and friends at this difficult time. I am about to enter the profession that you have been a successful part of for many years. I have heard only positive comments about you from different sources. R.I.P. Shane Howson – Cheshire

Thank you Steve for all you have done for teachers, for the NUT and trade unionism. You will be sadly missed. Philip Taylor – Stockport

Steve was a kind and generous man - who related well to other people. This is not to say that he was not also a man of ideas or principles - indeed, his approach was characterised by the highest principles of all. The important element of Steve's work was that he understood that if thos principles did not relate to other as human beings they were not proper principles at all. He was a person of great humanity - of seeing good in others - and where it was difficult to find, working hard to bring it out. He was a kind and generous man and we will miss him and what he stood for. Colin Caswell – Surrey

Those of us who knew Steve knew the worth of the man, those who only knew about him will come to realise it too. Eileen Sanham – Wrexham

My deepest sympathy to his wife and family. I feel that I have lost a friend. Anne Marie Proudfoot – Manchester

It is sad to hear this. You have worked hard to fight against injustices. You have sacrificed your life for an ordinary Teacher. You lived exemplary for teachers. You will be sadly missed. The truth is your labour will not be in vain – we will continue to fight. Martin Agyei – Newham

I feel the NUT has lost an inspirational leader who was a much needed voice in the world of Education. My condolences go to his family and friends Jean Burrows – Waltham Forest

I only met him a couple of times, but he represented a listening and democratic union. He spoke up for ordinary people. Whether you agreed or disagreed with his message, he still listened and generated respect. I liked him for that. Steffan - Swansea

To whom it may concern, I was a pupil of Steve's around 1979-81, when he taught Sociololgy at Shorefields Comprehensive. My contact with him was quite limited, but his quiet, applied professionalism made a lifelong impression on me. I was surprised one evening on the news a few years later to see how far he had come, but not surpised by his application and committment. To his family and friends, thank you so much for all that he gave to me and others during the time we came into contact with him. So long sir. Ian Stevenson – Merseyside

Remembering meeting Steve at a 'stress and wellbeing' course two years ago and in Coventry 18 months ago, on both occasions 'challenging' him on unions lack of commitment to strike action over performance related pay and other issues! On both occasions he answered honourably, referring to such things as success in winning pensions concessions (which I have benefitted from!) So sorry for the loss to your family and thankful for the commitment and integrity of a present day trade union activist. Best wishes of support to Steve's family. Maggie Callaghan – Coventry

I am writing in my capacity as chair of the joint teacher union panel, on behalf of all teacher unions in Warwickshire to express the deep sadness felt at Steve's death; I can sum up the various sincere expressions as adding up to the view that the TUC and the teaching profession are the poorer without him. We also wanted to send our deepest sympathies to Mary and her family for their loss. Max Hyde, chair of ATP Warwickshire. heartfelt

You have been an inspiration! You will be sorely missed! With deepest sympathy to family and friends Maria Mota – Wandsworth

Whilst I was Secretary of the NUT in Islington I found Steve very supportive, even though at times we did not always agree politically. He had a friendly encouraging manner for all members. My greatest respect for him lies in the fact that he believed in our union and worked extremely hard to ensure that the union represented the voice of the majority. I know , through many conversations with Steve that his family were significantly important to him, my condolences to his family . Thankyou Steve Deirdre - Bedfordshire (prev Islington)

A truly dynamic and inspiring leader and a very good friend. I miss him. Roger Gow - Enfield

You will be sadly missed but always remembered in the hearts of many. Samantha Daniels - Blackpool

A loss not just to teachers but also to children in education and their parents. John Doherty - Wirral

 

I know we as a union have lost a great leader,we will however keep fighting for all the things Steve was so passionate about. My thoughts and prayers are with the Sinnott family. Karen Large - Lewisham

Thanks for all hard work. Much admired and respected man. With sympathy to all of his family. Zahra. Vanlare

It is with regret that I learnt of Steve Sinnott's death. He was one of the good guys. I extend my sympathy to his family. Carol Fraser - Hertfordshire

I can liken the shock I felt at the news of Steve's death to that which I felt at John Kennedy's and Princess Diana's passing. I felt robbed of something which was mine. Steve had those same qualities, he was a big man, so close to all the little ones. I thank his family for sharing him with us. Helen Atkinson - Derbyshire

A time came in 1995 to gear up the campaign to return the UK to UNESCO membership. The Friends of UNESCO developed the materials but had no funds. Steve and the NUT stepped in, saw the need and delivered. We distributed good campaigning material nationwide and within months, national sentiment had changed and support grew. From then, we never looked back, knowing we would succeed. Thanks, Steve,. David Wardrop - on-teacher colleague

A great man - a tremendous support to our local association, and the officers who continue to run it, His contribution to our fair deal for shropshire schools will remain long term in our memories. On a personal level I shall really miss his enthusiasm, encouragement, vision for education and leadership . Christine Hargest - Shropshire

I will always have fond memories of Steve. He always, always took time out to acknowledge me, no matter what he was doing or who he was talking to. At Conference he always found time to crack a joke or two with me, memories I will treasure for ever! My sincere condolences to his family . Sharon Anderson - NUT Staff

I am very sad to hear that Mr Sinnott has passed away. He taught me at Broughton High School between the years of 1985-1990 and I always found him to be very approachable, humorous and a good teacher. I am now a teacher myself and it is people like Steve Sinnott that have helped me along the way. A genuine guy and a sad loss to everyone Michael Halshaw - Manchester

I never met Steve but am deeply saddened that one of the 'good guys', who gave so much to others should die before he was able to reap the rewards of his own hard work.A great loss. Hazel Philipson - Percy Hedley School, Newcastle

An amazing man that will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace. Betty Conboy – Harrow

A vibrant and inspiring speaker who will be sadly missed. We will continue to fight on for decent pay and conditions both for ourselves and in memory of Steve's commitment.. Caroline Lynch - Tower Hamlets

You enjoyed life, laughed and you will be missed. Jane Clark – Previous employee

Steve was a great friend of the Trade Union Network at Amnesty International UK, and together with his colleagues from the British and Irish Teachers Group (BIGTU) and the 30-million strong Education International, he championed education as a means to alleviate poverty and promote self-determination and the advancement of human rights. Whether tackling homophobic bullying here in the UK or promoting safer schools for girls abroad and striving to protect teachers at risk, such as Samuel Morales and Raquel Castro in Colombia, Steve made common cause with us in the pursuit of the liberation that can come from human rights, social justice and educational opportunity. At last year’s World Teachers’ Day event at the NUT in London we were all moved by the rousing appre! ciation of the Ethiopian delegates for the solidarity they had received though our shared efforts. Their struggle continues, as does that of teachers in Zimbabwe, Colombia, Iran and in many other parts of the world. Our greatest tribute to Steve would be to continue and deepen our collaboration in the cause of educational freedoms and opportunities. At World teachers’ Day this year, on the 5th October, we will mourn his loss, but we will work each and every day to advance our common cause. Tom Hedley, Chair of the Trade Union Network, Amnesty International UK

I remember the wonderful trip to Cuba with about 26 other NUT members to look at that country's success in education despite the lack of materials. Steve's humour, interest, concern and leadership shone through the whole time to make the visit a truly memorable experience. He will be sadly missed. Chrissy White – Lancashire

Condolences to Steve's family. A leading light in so many ways. The world is a darker place without him. Carol Davies - Lancashire

Steve, I only met you on a couple of occasions at the Black Teachers Conference at Stoke Rochford. On both occasions I found you to be witty, informative and a 'brother' in the struggle against inequality in education. I want to thank you for supporting and encouraging black teachers to confront the injustice we and Black children face in British schools. You were one of life's good men. R.I.P. brother. Heather McClue - Bedfordshire

You fought a good fight. Derrick Shortridge - LBWF

A sad news, Thank you for supporting teachers the way you did. That's what I call dedication. Sympathy to family and friends. Baptiste Jouhannaud – Wokingham

A sad loss for his family, A massive loss to the teaching world. Graham Cheetham – Doncaster and District

I was extemely saddened to read of Steve's death. I admired him greatly for his dedication to the Nut and human rights issues. I used to read of him in my Cuba Si magazine and his work and support for the people of Cuba. I feel for his family in losing such a great guy and at such a young age. Maureen Bailey - Cornwall C.C.

As a UNISON member and activist I wanted to express my condolences to Steve's family, friends and members. I hope we can honour his memory by uniting all school staff to fight for fair pay and conditions and to defend the education system and turn the tide of privatisation and exam-driven targets. I'm sure it is what he would have wanted. Robert Lugg - Kensington & Chelsea

It was a pleasure to meet Steve, during a time of great concern. Being an overseas trained teacher, it was obvious the we were being marginalised by the education system. Steve has made a big difference to us. He took time out of his busy schedule to meet with us to discuss our challengies. I shall forever remember my bigest cockup of all times when I was speaking to Steve at our High Commission dating back to 2003. We were talking about punishment in schools back home, when I said, 'students don't get capital punishment anymore.' Steve's discreet response was, 'you mean corporal punishment, don't you?' With memories like these I shall forever be greatful to an outstanding gentleman. He was one of the most distinguished pedagogues that I have ever known. Maxine Ormsby - Enfield

I will always remember when Steve attended an NQT conference and spoke to us. He was a friendly man who had a sense of humour and loved his football. Besides this he was also someone who answered any and all questions given to him that day (and some were tough). It was really encouraging to hear someone who was really passionate about teaching and improving the lives of teachers. I believe this to be a great loss and my prayers are with his family. Thank you Steve for giving me some of the best advice, that has helped me start in this profession, one that I am proud to be in- Thanks to you and the work you did with the NUT. Miss Rebecca Akinsanmi - Waltham Forest

I covered for Steve in the early days at Broughton High School, Preston. He was absent 2 days a week on Union business. He was a thoughtful, brave man; he listened and cared and was committed heart and soul to teachers and the NUT. Sadly missed. Liz Eastham (retired)

As Education Reporter for the LEP I first met Steve as a teacher ... a great bloke who was clearly destined for even greater things and never forgot his roots. He remained a good contact and an inspiration to many. A sad loss. RIP. Sonja Astbury – Lancashire

Steve Sinnott was a family name mentioned within my family of educationalists - He's up there with Ted Wragg and Carol Adams (A much loved and missed family member of mine) - three people who truly cared about Teachers and Teaching. Thoughts go his family. Dave Malachi – Croydon College

It was a great shock to hear of his untimely death and a great tragedy to lose one of the 'good guys' so young. He gave a lot and still had so much to give. Hazel Philipson – N. Tyneside

I was so shocked to hear of Steve's passing, such a great loss to our union, the teaching profession and the pupils of Wales and England. He was truly a genuine, caring man who believed in fairness and opportunity for every pupil and teacher, not only in Wales and England, but throughout the world. My thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.
John Griffiths - Newport City

You were a dynamic and hard working secretary and we are grateful to you for all you did . May Your Soul Rest in Peace.
Ms Winifred Lebari - Sefton, Merseyside

A truly great colleague and a huge loss to the union and to others who benefitted from his work on pay and conditions so devotedly. I know how tirelessly he devoted himself to the overrall professionalism of the teaching workforce. As a result of this leadership, the enhancement of the education of millions of pupils was effected. Thank you, Steve.
Angela Browning - Hampshire

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