STUC. Scottish Union Learning. The learning force behind Scotland's workers.

TUC Education Programmes

Aiming for Success

TUC programmes:

• Build the capacity of union reps to perform at the workplace and in the union;
• Develop the understanding of trade union policies and priorities, including equal opportunities;
• Enhance study skills and personal confidence for all those who take part;
• Make learning visible through accreditation;
• Stimulate commitment to learning and progression.

Education for Everyone

TUC Education attracts a huge range of learners, and significant numbers of traditional 'non-participants'. For many it is their first formal learning opportunity since leaving school - for some it builds on university level achievements.

A recent survey (‘Learning that Works: Accrediting the TUC Programme’, a report by Elaine Capizzi) found that:

• Women make up over a third of TUC course participants;
• There is a wide range of age groups represented, with 46% aged 40 or over and 14% aged 50 or over;
• 7% of participants have a physical or learning disability that affects work, education or training;
• 36% of representatives have gained no qualifications since leaving school;
• For the fifth of participants with no qualifications, the achievement of National Open College Network credits on TUC courses will be their first nationally recognised certificate in education or training;
• 7% of TUC course participants have high levels of academic qualifications (HNDs, Diplomas and Certificates, degrees and post-graduate qualifications.

Inclusive and Welcoming

The TUC is committed to equal treatment regardless of sex, race, disability, sexuality or age. The aims of the TUC programmes include equal participation by all groups, and delivering skills, knowledge and understanding to learners so they can assist all of their members.

The purpose of the programme is to deliver a quality learning experience, with a system of accreditation which points to future learning opportunities.

Who runs the courses?

The TUC National Course Programme is delivered locally through further education colleges in Scotland. (Internal link to Course Coordinators Page). The courses are set up by the TUC Regional Education Officer for Scotland.

Learning Materials

TUC Education develops and provides student materials for all TUC courses. These are regularly reviewed, revised and rewritten with the active involvement of practising trade union studies tutors and TUC policy experts. Evidence of learning achievement is recorded and students receive regular feedback.

TUC Tutors

Everyone knows the importance of good teachers. TUC Education trains and develops its tutors on specially designed courses and further briefings are provided as new and revised materials are brought on stream. TUC Education has also developed a TUC tutor website to support and improve professional practise. This helps keep them up-to-date with the accreditation process and relevant subjects. The essential requirement for TUC tutors is that they are experienced trade unionists who understand the role of the union rep and its problems.
TUC tutors are employed by local providing colleges. Visit the Course Co-ordinators Page for more information.

Who monitors quality?

The TUC employs its own procedures for quality assurance. These are designed to integrate with, and complement, the system of quality assurance used by TUC course providers. The purpose is to ensure that TUC courses meet the needs of course participants in the most effective way. Complementary support and assurance is offered through the awarding body, NOCN.