Experienced teachers play a crucial role in the success of every school.

They inspire, nurture and provide stability for pupils, as well as their younger colleagues.

However, we are aware that experienced teachers do not always get the support and recognition they deserve.

Some older teachers are treated unfairly and singled out through capability or redundancy procedures.

Tackling this age discrimination is a top priority for our members.

At our Annual Conference, they voted for a campaign to celebrate the vital contributions made by experienced teachers.

We know we could tell thousands of stories of how our members are making a difference at schools across the country.

But here are just a few great examples - from Michael Bates, who has been teaching for 60 years, to Shini Mahendran, the fourth generation of teachers in her family.

We want dedicated teachers, like these, to feel valued and secure in their workplaces so that they stay in the profession.

To address this, we have also been working on a joint initiative with GMB, UNISON and Unite called The Valued Worker Scheme.

Our aim is to recognise those employers who do treat their employees well and encourage engagement with those that do not.

This scheme encourages schools to adopt policies and practices that demonstrate their commitment to treating all staff fairly, equitably and with dignity.

The NASUWT has championed the interests of older and experienced teachers during the DfE’s Teachers Working Longer Review.