FDA in the Department for Education
FDA represents DfE staff in grades HEO and above
The FDA provides workplace representation, legal assistance, career development and many other benefits to members working in the Department for Education (DfE) and its associated agencies and public bodies.
We work collaboratively and in partnership to improve the professional and public standing of our DfE members.
Helen Kenny
National Officer
Helen is the National Officer responsible for the Department for Education.
The FDA provides workplace representation, legal assistance, career development and many other benefits to members working in the Department for Education (DfE) and its associated agencies and public bodies.
We work collaboratively and in partnership to improve the professional and public standing of our DfE members.
Helen Kenny
national officer
Helen is the National Officer responsible for the Department for Education.
What the FDA can do for you
We are there when you need help at work
Whatever your workplace issue, we are here with one-to-one employment advice and representation to help resolve it.
We fight for your pay, pensions and working conditions
We campaign and negotiate with employers on behalf of our members to ensure they have the resources required both to do their jobs and have a life outside the workplace.
We support your career progression
Through our specialised masterclasses, conferences and online training, FDA Learn addresses a wide range of skills to help you progress in your career and maximise your potential.
Join the FDA today
By joining the FDA, you’ll be standing alongside more than 25,000 other members who believe that public services – and the people who deliver them – matter.
Latest news
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Education Minister Paul Givan must provide clarity over Israel visit – FDA NI National Officer Robert Murtagh
The FDA’s National Officer for Northern Ireland Robert Murtagh has called on Minister of Education Paul Givan to urgently clarify the use of departmental resources for a recent trip to Israel.
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No.10 briefings against Cabinet Secretary Chris Wormald “stink of political cowardice”, Penman says
FDA General Secretary Dave Penman has condemned briefings from No.10 sources that Cabinet Secretary Chris Wormald had lost the confidence of senior figures in Downing Street and would likely be replaced by January next year.
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FDA’s inaugural Insights into Public Service Leadership conference takes place in Belfast
The FDA Northern Ireland section held the inaugural ‘Insights into Public Service Leadership’ half-day conference and networking on Thursday 16 October 2025 for members and non-members in NI.