Working Lives Research Institute
"I am really enjoying the course and it has given me the opportunity to work and share best practice with other union activists from a variety of different trade unions. It has raised my awareness about how the learning agenda can have a positive influence on other areas of trade unionism such as organising and bargaining."
John Dougherty, Union Learning Rep, RMT
Read the full interview with John Dougherty in the 'RMT News' below:
John Dougherty article (RMT News).doc
See also a short film made by John Dougherty about Union Learning in the Recession.
"I have totally enjoyed the first year of the course. When I started I was nervous about how difficult it would be. However the first two modules were so interesting, I am now addicted to reading the subject material. This course has given me such an insight into the global dimension of what I do as a ULR, particularly the environmental issues, I want to carry on after this has finished and probably study for a degree".
James Coupland, Union Learning Rep, BECTU.
"I decided to enrol on this course because I wanted to practice what I preach as a ULR - learning ! The library staff and tutors have given me great support, which is really important when you've been away from learning for a while. The TUC library at the university is excellent. I’ve met great people on the course and now have a network of trade union colleagues to discuss things with. I enjoyed the "history of workers education" and I didn't realise how long the trade union movement has been involved in worker's education. The course has helped me reflect on my day to day role as a ULR and, as someone who isn't from London, the University isn't difficult to find."
James Walker, Union Learning Rep, Unite the Union
Read further comments in a short interview with James Walker in the Autumn 2008 issue of 'The Learning Rep' magazine here:
CPD in Learning Rep Autumn 08
"The course was a real eye opener for me. It was well structured and having the support of the tutors whenever I needed it was invaluable. The course also allows you to develop a support network with the other students and that is really important. You get good instructions and guidance from the university and have the online library resource for research available and access to the TU Library archive to use as well. Overall the course has given me the chance to develop my skills as a union rep and has been a great opportunity".
Nick Bury, Union Learning Rep, CWU
"This is the first time I have been to university. I thought the first year was really good and have learned a lot, particularly on Government policy and how this is shaped by globalisation. I also enjoyed the history of union education. I also like the delivery - one day a month works well for me. It has given me such a lot of confidence as a ULR".
Martin Roberts, Union Learning Rep, BECTU