Find the right training for you

To be the best union rep you can, good training is essential. To give you the skills and knowledge you need to carry out your role and make a difference in the workplace. 

TUC credential system and learning pathways

To help you develop as a rep, TUC Education have created numerous pieces of learning. They are split into three learning pathways, and three categories.

The pathways help you know where you are on your learning journey and where your union training can take you.

There are three learning pathways:

Workplace representation

Representing members at work is a key function of a union rep. This learning pathway includes key training in:

• negotiation
• meeting management
• the rights of a union rep
• mapping the workplace
• supporting members with disciplines and grievances.

Health and safety

Union health and safety reps save lives in the workplace. The health and safety learning pathway covers:

• safety reps and the law
• preventing accidents and ill-health
• mental health issues
• mapping the workplace and your members
• risk assessments and workplace inspections.

Union learning

Learning at work through the union can change lives. The union learning pathway includes:

• what a union learning rep does 
• how to support learners at work
• negotiating a learning agreement
• supporting apprentices
• building relationships with learning providers.

These three pathways are underpinned by learning in organising and equalities. 

And there are three categories of learning and achievement:

Aware

TUC learning in the aware category is self-directed, keeps you up to date on workplace issues and provides knowledge about a union approach to multiple subjects.

Informed

Informed learning from the TUC includes both self-directed and tutor delivered learning. This training will develop your knowledge of the role of a union rep and develop key skills.

Practising

A recognition of union practising, means that you have carried out a union rep task or function in the workplace. This could be negotiating a learning agreement, undertaking a safety inspection or represent a member in a grievance or disciplinary procedure. You may also get recognition for demonstrating a particular skill - for example public speaking.

As we develop new learning and training, the TUC learning pathways and categories will expand. There will always be something new to learn and new ways to develop!

Get recognised for what you know and can do

When you complete a piece of learning or training, or if you demonstrate a particular skill within your role as a rep, you will receive a digital credential.

A TUC digital credential makes it straightforward to tell your union, your employer and your members what you have learned. By sharing your TUC digital credential, you will be helping others see how you are developing your knowledge and skills to make a difference in your workplace.

What is a digital credential?

We award TUC digital credentials to recognise the training you have completed as a rep. Some unions offer their own digital credentials for activities that you undertake as a rep. You will need to speak to your union about getting recognition for workplace activities.

Think of your digital credential as a training certificate in digital form.