Trade union education is one of the largest adult education programmes in the UK. For BECTU members you have the option of attending our own course programme, The TUC (Trade Union Congress) programme held at colleges around the country or the GFTU (General Federation of Trade Unions).
Are courses professionally run?
Trade union courses are well-regarded (rated as excellent by the government Office for Standards in Education) and are run in an inclusive, friendly but professional way. BECTU reps courses are tutored by professional tutors from the TUC studies department of South Thames College.
How are they run?
Discussion and debate are the key tools of trade union education, so your contribution and views will be encouraged and respected. Our training methods are firmly grounded in educational theory, they are effective and participatory.
Diversity and equality are core union values and are reflected in all workshops and courses. Our own Equality & Diversity policy summarises our commitment.
You will be warmly welcomed at all union-run courses and respected for coming forward to be a volunteer active trade unionist. Our education is informed by our values of solidarity, democracy, fairness, justice and respect for difference.
Do I need qualifications?
You do not require formal qualifications but you will need to be open to new ideas and willing to work collectively with other colleagues.
Can I gain recognised qualifications?
Most trade union courses are accredited with the Open College Network (OCN). This means that you can accumulate academic 'credits' for your work at levels 1,2 and 3. Courses run by ourselves, the TUC and the GFTU are all registered for OCN credits. If you want to learn more about 'levels', 'credits' and 'qualifications' go to our own dedicated pages where you will find everything explained clearly.Some more advanced programmes such as the TUC Certificate in Occupational Health & Safety at OCN Level 3 are accredited, in this case to meet the academic requirement for Safety Technician (Tech IOSH) grade.
How much will it cost?
Trade union courses are usually free and BECTU (or the TUC and GFTU) will usually pay travel and other reasonable expenses.
How do I apply?
Application is straightforward so please go to the section on 'how to apply' to find out what to do next.
