URTU

05.12.07

Why not become a Union Learning Rep?

Over the past three years, the Government has been encouraging trade unions to train up a network of learning representatives. These union learning reps operate in their workplaces to promote the idea of learning, encourage their colleagues to get involved and give advice about learning opportunities in their local area. URTU is looking to train a number of members to become learning reps and would like to hear from you if you are interested in getting involved.

Frequently asked questions:

Would I make a good learning rep?

To become a rep you do not need to have had any previous branch or union responsibilities, just a desire to get involved. If you have completed a course that you really enjoyed, have a background in a learning environment, want to do something different with your life or just have a general interest in the subject, you could become a local learning rep.

What would I do?

You will attend a five day course, organised by the Union. This will give you all the knowledge you need to get started.

Once your course is finished, you will get involved in activities at your workplace. Your employer will allow you paid time for this.

Activities will vary, but would typically include:

Finding out about members learning interests by distributing a questionnaire, which URTU will give you. You won ’t be concerned with work related learning, as your employer is responsible for providing this.

Collecting information from local colleges and other training providers so you can point colleagues in the right direction when they enquire about courses.

Helping colleagues with essential skills needs by referring them to appropriate tutors or making the case with your manager for special resources.

Attending workshops on learning topics such as ‘working with learning / training providers’, ‘skills for life’ and ‘diversity’. Getting involved with a union initiative or setting up a learning centre.

What help will I get?

URTU has an education department with a dedicated learning rep co-ordinator. Your own branch will also support you and Unionlearn and the Trade Unions Congress has a wealth of experience and information that learning reps can call on. If you work for one of the employers with whom we have got an arrangement, senior managers will have endorsed your role. You ’ll get a handbook, regular updates on the Government’s learning initiatives, the chance to work with learning & skills councils and much more.

Will becoming a Union learning rep help my career?

Undoubtedly. Although learning reps are neither tutors nor trainers, you will hold a position of responsibility and will learn new skills and attain nationally accredited qualifications. You will have shown that you can communicate well, that you can manage your time and help your members become aware of the learning and education freely available to them. In addition, the range of activities and events you ’ll cover will benefit you considerably in your work, home and social life.

How do I sign up?

Union learning reps have to be nominated by a Branch official, or Full Time Officer so, if you ’re interested, get in touch.

For more information, contact Ricky Hopkins, National Project Manager, URTU Union Learning Fund on 07795 562 873 or email rickyhurtu@yahoo.co.uk







NEWS

		NEWS

		05.12.07 Why not become a Union Learning Rep? Over the past three years, the Government has been encouraging trade unions to train up a network of learning representatives. These union learning reps operate in their workplaces to promote the idea of learning, encourage their colleagues to get involved and give advice about learning opportunities in their local area. URTU is looking to train a number of members to become learning reps and would like to hear from you if you are interested in getting involved. Frequently asked questions: Would I make a good learning rep? To become a rep you do not need to have had any previous branch or union responsibilities, just a desire to get involved. If you have completed a course that you really enjoyed, have a background in a learning environment, want to do something different with your life or just have a general interest in the subject, you could become a local learning rep. What would I do? You will attend a five day course, organised by the Union. This will give you all the knowledge you need to get started. Once your course is finished, you will get involved in activities at your workplace. Your employer will allow you paid time for this. Activities will vary, but would typically include: Finding out about members learning interests by distributing a questionnaire, which URTU will give you. You won ’t be concerned with work related learning, as your employer is responsible for providing this. Collecting information from local colleges and other training providers so you can point colleagues in the right direction when they enquire about courses. Helping colleagues with essential skills needs by referring them to appropriate tutors or making the case with your manager for special resources. Attending workshops on learning topics such as ‘working with learning / training providers’, ‘skills for life’ and ‘diversity’. Getting involved with a union initiative or setting up a learning centre. What help will I get? URTU has an education department with a dedicated learning rep co-ordinator. Your own branch will also support you and Unionlearn and the Trade Unions Congress has a wealth of experience and information that learning reps can call on. If you work for one of the employers with whom we have got an arrangement, senior managers will have endorsed your role. You ’ll get a handbook, regular updates on the Government’s learning initiatives, the chance to work with learning & skills councils and much more. Will becoming a Union learning rep help my career? Undoubtedly. Although learning reps are neither tutors nor trainers, you will hold a position of responsibility and will learn new skills and attain nationally accredited qualifications. You will have shown that you can communicate well, that you can manage your time and help your members become aware of the learning and education freely available to them. In addition, the range of activities and events you ’ll cover will benefit you considerably in your work, home and social life. How do I sign up? Union learning reps have to be nominated by a Branch official, or Full Time Officer so, if you ’re interested, get in touch. For more information, contact Ricky Hopkins, National Project Manager, URTU Union Learning Fund on 07795 562 873 or email rickyhurtu@yahoo.co.uk