lecture

Trade Unions have a long and proud history of worker education.

From the founding of Ruskin College in Oxford in 1899 to provide third level education for working class people, to the establishment of the Workers Educational Association in 1903, Trade Unions have been involved in the struggle to provide 'second chance' educational opportunities for people for many generations.

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Inclusive and welcoming

The ICTU is fully committed to equal opportunities and our courses are provided regardless of gender, age, religious or political belief, ethnic origin, disability or sexual orientation.

Tutoring

ICTU courses are taught by trade union tutors with many years’ experience in the trade union movement.  Our courses are designed to encourage everyone to learn in a friendly, supportive environment.  There are no tests or exams and tutors are on hand to help support everyone’s learning.

How to enrol for a course

Ask your employer for paid release from work to attend the course. 

Workplace reps, shops stewards, health and safety reps and union learning reps have a legal right to attend ICTU and union approved courses without loss of earnings.  
Ensure you follow the procedures agreed between your union and your employer.  If you experience any problem with this, you should contact your full time official.

Accreditation

Union Representatives attending trade union courses will gain Open College Network accreditation for units of qualifications that are held on the new Qualifications Credit Framework. These units of accreditation can be built up to gain awards, certificates and diplomas at various levels.

The chart below shows qualifications, their levels and the number of credits needed to gain the qualification.
 

 

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Award

(All 3/5 day courses)

6 credits

 (All 3/5 day courses)

6 credits

 (All 3/5 day courses)

6 credits.

Certificate

(All 8/10 day courses)

18 credits

(All 8/10 day courses)

18 credits

(All 8/10 day courses)

21 credits

Diploma

 

Occupational H&S
Employment Law
Equalities

48 credits

Occupational Health and Safety Employment Law
Tutor training

48 credits