TUC Union Reps One
The course helps new union reps to understand their role and responsibilities as a rep. They include working together with members and other union reps; talking to members and dealing with their problems; recruiting members and getting them involved in the union; meeting management to discuss a range of issues at work and keeping members informed about wider union concerns.
Course dates and method
Who is the course for?
What will the course help me to do?
What will I do in the course?
What will I get for completing the course?
What are the entry requirements?
Course dates and method
The course will include self-study online learning, with facilitation by tutors, and group activities with a tutor in live online sessions (via e.g. Zoom).
The session dates, times and locations are below. Please note: you will be expected to attend the online sessions and complete online self-study activities.
The course will take place over eight weeks with five live Zoom sessions on the dates listed below.
The next instance of this course will take place starting in September 2026, with exact dates to be confirmed soon.
Who is the course for?
This core course is for union workplace representatives across the UK, except for those living in Wales.
What will the course help me to do?
The course will help you:
- understand the role of the union rep in the workplace and the wider union
- use and make agreements
- represent members in discussions with employers
- understand how grievances and disciplinaries are handled
- understand rights at work
- build confidence in your role and responsibilities as a union rep
- develop the skills you need to be an effective rep.
What will I do in the course?
The course consists of three modules:
- The union rep role
- Helping the union grow
- Supporting members
- Case work for reps
Each module includes videos, online resources, quizzes and worksheets. You will be fully supported by a TUC Education tutor.
The course will take approximately 24- 32 hours of study.
What will I get for completing the course?
This course is quality assured and accredited by the TUC.
Upon completion of each module, you will receive a digital credential.
A digital credential is evidence that you have completed each module. Once you have completed the four modules, you will receive your TUC union reps qualification.
What are the entry requirements?
Please ensure that you have time off to do this course. You should also seek permission to do this course from your union. Let your union branch official or officer know you have applied for the course. Your course tutor may ask to show evidence that you have union approval for you to undertake this course.
For detailed information about your time off to train for your role as a rep, see the guidance from ACAS.
Online courses are especially suitable for union reps who need a convenient and more flexibly delivered course. However, to get the most from this course you will need to be motivated and organised. You will need to ensure that you have enough time to complete the course and that you are available for the zoom or face to face elements as guided by the TUC tutor.
If you have any further questions about this course, contact tuceducation@tuc.org.uk.