Information and advice on commercial activities in schools including sponsored resources and collector schemes.

This document provides information and advice on commercial activities in schools including:

• sponsored resources, such as teaching packs and materials; and

• collector schemes, such as Cadbury Get Active and Walkers "Free" Books for Schools promotion

It sets out some of the key issues that should be considered when assessing the suitability of commercial materials. It points to sources of further information and guidance.

Advice to members
The NUT recognises that many schools and teachers have established very positive links with companies, local and national, and have benefited from their involvement, for example, through volunteer reading schemes, work experience placements and the provision of materials. Many companies have strong records of providing valuable teaching materials and aids. The NUT, however, is deeply alarmed at the targeting of schools by businesses seeking simply to market their products and exploit schools, pupils and parents. In recent years there has been an unprecedented increase in the use of commercial materials in schools, with UK brands spending an estimated £300m a year on targeting the classroom to increase sales.

At its Annual Conference in 2003 the NUT resolved to campaign against commercialisation in schools, advertising aimed at children and the dangers of junk food. The NUT believes that decisions on school activities involving commercial materials or sponsorship should be made on a whole-school basis and is committed to supporting members who are directed to participate in such activities contrary to their professional judgement.