The idea of a union for kids might raise an eyebrow but if students can have unions to represent their views and interests, why not school-age children?

Billy Lezard, 12, says she and her older sister Charlie started the National Union for Kids several years ago. “Our families have always been involved in trade unions and we have been raised with a political background. 

“We wanted the kids to know their rights and what their responsibilities are.”

Tolpuddle is the NUK’s main recruiting ground where the children’s father, journalist Tim Lezard, is involved in organising the festival. “Last year we got 30 new members joining. We have just over 100 members across the country,” says Billy. 

“We quite often email our members and ask them about things happening in education that affect them and advise them what they can do.

“We ask them if they would like to represent NUK in their region or county.”

The NUK is strongest in the West Country where it started, and has active members in London.

“We meet at Tolpuddle every year. When there are big education strikes we quite often go with our banner to show our support.”

Charlie, 14, says the union’s main activities are at Tolpuddle and during teachers’ strikes. “We try to explain to kids that they do have a voice. We want them to realise that they have a say and that when they are older they should join a union. 

“We focus on education issues. We want kids to know that what they say matters. 

“A lot of teachers come to us and ask us what kids are saying they would like to change about education.

“We don’t necessarily make the action but we give it a voice. If we hear about actions we let our members know where they can join demonstrations in their area.”

The majority of the members’ parents are involved in trade unions and they support what the children do, says Charlie. 

“We make sure the kids have permission and that the adults know what we are doing because without the parents it would not go anywhere. 

“We are the megaphone for kids to have a voice. If they express it right something might change. It can’t be from a childish motive like wanting longer school breaks or more sweets in school. 

“It needs to have realistic goals that will positively benefit people. We give kids ways to sensibly address their issues and get their points across and not be dismissed.

“It’s quite a unique idea to have a kids union — we don’t know of any other like it. That’s why we get such a positive response when people hear about it as it is something completely new, and that’s why we think it will help inspire people to get involved and give kids a real voice.”