Trade unions depend on their members to volunteer to be representatives (reps) and be active union supporters (activists).
BECTU is no different, we need volunteers and we need them to be skilled and confident carrying out their duties and activites. That is why we have teamed up with the TUC studies unit at South Thames College to run a programme of training courses that are designed with people who work in the creative sector in mind. You also have the option of attending TUC (Trade Union Congress) courses or GFTU (General Federation of Trade Unions) courses - whatever suits your needs.
In this section you will find information about courses for union reps from different providers, covering different types of representation and located in every part of the country. For more info go to the pages on FAQs and 'how to apply'. If you can't find what you are looking for please contact a member of the head office team.
If you are an elected or nominated BECTU representative then you are probably entitled to time off for training by law. In addition all reps courses are free to attend and BECTU will pay reasonable expenses to enable you to attend.
The BECTU Reps programme is designed for shop stewards, branch reps, safety reps and learning reps. The courses are also useful for branch officers and are open to staff and freelance members - though freelancers should check with head office before booking a place -to make sure it is relevant. Find out more about course dates and venues.
Our training partners are the Trade Union Studies Unit at South Thames College in London. All courses are benchmarked against the TUC course programme and are accredited with the Open College Network. All courses are free of charge.
TUC Education offers high quality, accredited training to union reps and professionals through a network of colleges of further education across the UK. Participation in the programme for union reps and professionals is at its highest since records began, overtaking the previous high of 1978.
The courses are attended by representatives of member trade unions and include:stewards (workplace reps), health and safety reps, union learning reps, pension scheme trustees, equality reps, green reps, other trade union reps.
The TUC also run a wide range of online courses.
