NAHT general secretary Paul Whiteman opened the union’s Annual Conference 2025 with a wide-ranging speech urging the new government to be bold in its approach to education reform and to work in genuine partnership with the profession.

Speaking to delegates in Harrogate, he called on ministers to seize the opportunity presented by their significant political mandate. Quoting former prime minister Clement Attlee, he said “progress is not possible without change, and change is not possible without courage”, encouraging the government not to let pragmatism overshadow the need for long-term vision.

Reflecting on 14 years of underinvestment and political instability in education, Paul Whiteman criticised what he described as “dangerous inspection, crumbling schools and recruitment and retention crises.” He warned against cautious policymaking and said the government must “dare to dream” about the legacy it wants to leave behind.

While welcoming some of the early steps taken by the new administration, including commitments to breakfast clubs, early years education and school-based nurseries, he said these initiatives must now be backed by long-term investment and delivery.

Addressing wider national developments, Whiteman highlighted the work of NAHT Cymru and NAHT(NI), including successful campaigns in Wales on Additional Learning Needs and the recent pausing of industrial action in Northern Ireland following a new offer on pay and workload. He also reiterated NAHT’s call for the end of crude school grading in England, following the independent review into the death of headteacher Ruth Perry.

Whiteman criticised the current Ofsted proposals as insufficient and called on His Majesty’s Chief Inspector to “think again”. He also stressed that school leaders are not opposed to accountability but called for a more proportionate and supportive inspection system.

On funding, Whiteman said the government must recognise that investing in education is an investment in the economy. Referencing research on the long-term returns of school funding, he argued that economic growth, improved outcomes and greater equity all depend on a well-resourced education system.

The speech also reaffirmed NAHT’s political independence, with Whiteman stating that the union would continue to challenge any government when necessary, while supporting efforts that align with the interests of members and children.

He closed by thanking delegates, the union’s national executive and staff, and called on the profession to “tell the world how it is, and campaign for how it should be.”

Watch Paul's full speech.