ATL

Union learning reps

Learning is a key part of union activity because, through learning events, members can come together and create an involved and relevant union within their schools and colleges. At its very core, union learning reps (ULRs) support and help other members with their continuing personal and professional development.

At both branch and workplace level, this means ULRs work closely with members and management to identify ways to improve access and quality of current provision as well as source new opportunities.

In ATL, there are two main types of ULR: branch and workplace. The main differences between the roles are that a ULR based in the workplace (in either a school or college) tends to work with all staff members and concentrate on working in partnership with the institution's CPD coordinator or committee. Branch-based ULRs concentrate on branch union learning events, working with the local authority and recruiting and supporting school-based ULRs.

The role of workplace-based ULRs

This type of ULR works with members/staff within the school to:

• promote learning opportunities amongst members at your workplace

• provide an overall analysis of staff learning needs, both professional and personal, through conducting a learning needs survey

• give support to members and help them overcome barriers to learning

• signpost members to other sources of support and advice

• organise learning or training events

• build links with other ATL reps

• recruit non-members to ATL.

ULRs also work with school management to:

• enhance and support current provision, working with the CPD coordinator/committee

• suggest a school/college learning agreement

• help shape staff training days to meet the needs of all education staff through organising taster sessions based on your learning needs analysis

• share and expand expertise and promote a whole establishment approach to lifelong learning

• suggest termly meetings to look at staff development, training and lifelong learning, and INSET days within the workplace.

ULRs also work with branches to:

• build links with the local branch committee

• build links with branch and other workplace ULRs within your local area.

Workplace-based ULRs also gather information about training providers, etc and collect project information for feeding back to learning organisers.

The role of branch ULRs

Working alongside the branch secretary and committee, a branch ULR:

• develops and promotes CPD and lifelong learning to all members within their branch

• mentors new workplace ULRs

• recruits more workplace ULRs into the branch.

They represent members formally on matters relating to CPD and lifelong learning.

ULR training

Learning reps in schools where ATL has recognition have statutory rights to paid time off to attend courses and to carry out their role. ULRs complete a three-day accredited training course to equip them with the skills and knowledge to fulfill the role. The course covers:

• the role and rights of the ULR

• current issues in education

• principles of CPD and lifelong learning

• interviewing a colleague

• performance management

• building effective partnerships

• negotiating learning and training.

For more information or to check locations and dates, look up the training section of our website.

Support for ULRs

ATL recognises that starting out in a new role can be daunting. This is why, over the first year of being a ULR, you will receive the support and help of a learning organiser. If you are a workplace ULR, you will also have your branch ULR to act as your mentor at a local level.

Each term you will also receive a copy of You learn, our newsletter dedicated to ULRs. It features a regular round-up of all the education news relevant to ULRs together with event information and the latest training and guidance available, as well as lots of other useful features including top tips and best practice stories. You will always be able to download the latest issue from the publications and resources section of our website.

When you become a ULR, you will also be given access to an online platform - the ATL 'Moodle' site. This is the main source of information to help with the role of ULR, provides a vehicle for you to share information, and helps you find information on national and regional networking. There are two main areas: the ATL ULR resources area provides information on your legal rights, learning agreements and funding, as well as tips for learning needs surveys, events and communication with members. There are also forums where you can post up ideas or ask for help from others. The second area is the ATL ULR regional network area, where you can place postings to chat to ULRs in your area.

If you are interested in becoming a ULR or would like more information on the Moodle platform, you can contact ATL's learning and development organiser, Becky Wright.