Founded in 1847 The Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) is the oldest teaching union in the world. Queen Victoria granted a Royal Charter to the EIS and among the powers conferred was the power to award a degree of 'Fellow of the Institute'. The EIS remains the only trade union which awards degrees. In the wider world, the EIS plays an active and prominent part in the major teacher international organisation, Education International representing over 20 million teachers from 300 teacher organisations in over 140 countries and the European Trade Union Committee for Education. The EIS too has contributed generously in appeals for aid, for example in developing countries, setting aside 1% of its subscription for this purpose.

see also: educational, eis, union

Unite the Union is the 'Union for Life,' throughout members' working lives - whatever their job and whoever their employer. Based on the principles of individual and collective responsibility, Unite the Union is dedicated to improving its members' standard of living and quality of life in both the public and private sectors reflecting the changing world of work, supporting workers through a programme of campaigning and organising.

see also: amicus, union, unite

The University and College Union was formed by the amalgamation of the Association of University Teachers and NATFHE - The University & College Lecturers' Union. UCU is the largest trade union and professional association for academics, lecturers, trainers, researchers and academic-related staff working in further and higher education throughout the UK.

see also: ucu, union