Education Department

Education Department

The Education Department is based at the Regional Office in Halesowen and headed by Regional Education Officer Martin Bevan.

You can contact us by phone on 0121 550 4888 or fax on 0121 550 4272.

The Introductory Course Programme for Shop Stewards and Reps is delivered right across the Birmingham & West Midlands Region, allowing our representatives to access training locally. The Introductory course is provided through TUC/WEA tutors and centres and has been specially designed for GMB activists. The Open College Network (OCN) accredits the courses, to give our representatives the recognition they deserve.

GMB TRAINING COURSE PROGRAMME SEPTEMBER 2008 - DECEMBER 2008

All new Representatives must attend the GMB@Work training before booking further courses. Only new representatives, who have received their Initial Support Training after 1/5/2007, need to complete the GMB@Work training.

How does my education start?

As soon as your Officer receives confirmation that you have been elected as a GMB Rep, he/she will write to your employer asking them to set up a meeting to enable the Officer to carry out your Initial Support Training (IST).

What are Union Learning Reps?

Union Learning Reps (ULRs) are trade union approved Reps, who negotiate with the employer on issues concerning education and training. They also discuss education and training with members and training providers.

The GMB in the Birmingham and West Midlands Region wants to ensure that our members make the most of this wonderful opportunity that exists for lifelong learning. In doing so our Learner Representatives need support and guidance for them to achieve the best for their members in the workplace.

Can I get financial help for further education?

There are a number of ways you can obtain funding.

If you are working AND studying in the evening or are attending a full-time course at college or university, you may be able to receive some financial support.

If you are pursuing your own course of study on either a part-time or full-time basis, or, if you have been accepted on a one-year full-time course e.g. at Ruskin or Northern Colleges, you may be eligible to apply for contributory funding to assist you. Members who are pursuing a variety of courses, both trade union related or otherwise e.g. NEBOSH, Counselling Skills or even a Phd have benefited.

To apply you will have to be enrolled and be attending your chosen course. You will need to complete a Scholarship application form and provide receipts for any expenditure that you have incurred towards your course and proof of your membership. Forms and further information are available from the Education Department.

We have received comments and letters from members expressing their appreciation and letting us know how they have progressed since receiving financial support from us. Here are some of them:

" with the financial support, I was able to complete my course and pass it with flying colours. The money was useful as it reimbursed me for the costs of my books."

" as a result of finishing my NEBOSH course, I have now been offered a full-time position in my company in a health and safety role."
.
" because I had to pay for the course myself at the beginning of the course, by spring the following year, I was greatly surprised to receive a cheque which helped cover part of my course fees."

Don't delay - apply today!

GMB, Will Thorne House, 2 Birmingham Road, Halesowen, West Midlands, B63 3HP

T: 0121 550 4888 F: 0121 550 4272

e: westmids@gmb.org.uk

© GMB 2002-2008