TU Education

You have access to a wide range of training through TU Education if you are a union representative, health & safety representative or union learning rep.

The programmes enable you to learn in a friendly, supportive environment and courses are offered flexibly to suit you through a traditional day release model. This may be your second chance to learn and a range of learning pathways are on offer, ensuring you can achieve your full potential.

Visit the TU Education website to search for a course. You can also visit Unionlearn for details of events, training, features and discussions.                

How will I learn and be taught on the courses?

TU Education develops and provides materials for courses. These are regularly reviewed by trade union studies tutors and policy experts. Evidence of learning achievement is recorded and you receive regular feedback.

Time off to learn

If you are a union representative who would like to attend TU courses in working time (including distance learning courses), you should first ask your employer for time off with pay. The law ensures that you can take reasonable time off with pay to attend approved courses (see ACAS Code of Practice).

If you have difficulty in obtaining paid time off to attend TU courses, you should seek assistance from your senior union rep or full time union officer.

Who validates these courses?

TU programmes are accredited through the Qualification Credit Framework and nationally recognised. There are no tests or exams. You will build up a file of work completed during the course, and the National Open College Network (NOCN) awards credits for achieving learning outcomes.

You build up credits to gain qualifications, which you can use to get onto other further and higher education courses. They also give unions and employers a clear view of what you have learned on your course.

For more details you can contact your TU regional education and training officer.