New union learning reps at the activist summer school

14 – 16 August 2023

Higdon House, Kempson Way, Bury St Edmunds, IP32 7AR

The core course for new union learning representatives explains UNISON’s approach to lifelong learning and helping working people to gain skills and qualifications and learn for personal fulfilment.

With a focus on those who have traditionally been excluded from learning, you will learn how you can work with members and employers to identify learning needs, promote UNISON’s learning offer, and organise around learning.

What will the course help me to do?

  • Identify and understand the role and skills of a ULR and the statutory rights associated with this role
  • Explore the benefits to members of lifelong learning
  • Understand what learning agreements are and their importance
  • How to use learning as an organising tool
  • Knowledge around functional skills

When does the course run?

This course runs Monday to Wednesday (14-16 August) at our Activist Summer School in Higdon House, Bury St Edmunds. Each day will start at 9.30am and be finished by 4.30pm.

Can I get time off to learn?

Yes, if you are in a recognised workplace the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 and the 1997 Safety Representative and Safety Committee Regulations give you the right to time off with pay to attend trade union courses. You just have to give your employer reasonable notice.

Guidance towards establishing what constitutes reasonable time off can be found in the ACAS Code of Practice.

How much is the course?

There is a charge of £90. Your branch will fund this cost and they will be invoiced once you have completed the course.

Sign me up!

Please fill in the below form so we can confirm your place with your branch.

  • If you’re not sure what branch you’re in, please check UNISON’s branch finder.