Unions commit to working with University to upskill workforce

The University of Wolverhampton has signed an official Memorandum of Understanding with TUC unionlearn to create new opportunities for union members to develop their careers.
 
High-level Apprenticeships, University level Continuing Professional Development courses and other aspiration-raising initiatives will all form part of the agreement.
 
There are also plans to develop a revitalised education and training strategy to support higher education opportunities for those in work who want to upskill and to research the roles of Union Learning Representatives (ULR) who champion training and development.
 
The MoU has been devised in recognition of the roles both organisations play in supporting work-based progression to higher education.
 
Dr Mary Mahoney, Head of Lifelong Learning at the University, said: “We are very excited about this partnership with TUC unionlearn as it encourages and supports adult progression into higher education to enhance career development.”
 
“Both the University and unionlearn are well-placed to engage constructively with employers to identify how aspirations of employees can be met in relation to workforce development.
 
“The MoU aligns the University’s focus on advancing vocational education and its commitment to community empowerment with unionlearn’s success in supporting 250,000 workers a year to take part in learning and development activities at work, supported by ULRs. I am confident it will prove to be a very successful partnership.”
 
Tom Wilson, unionlearn Director, said: “Unionlearn is very pleased to sign this MoU with the University of Wolverhampton. The agreement, which offers a 10% discount on course fees for trade union members, will give an added incentive for many people to rediscover the world of learning and take up new education opportunities that many help them develop their career or explore a new area of learning.”
 
“Unions and ULRs have a long history supporting lifelong learning and working with education providers to help workers develop their skills. This partnership will open up doors to more members and we look forward to working with the University of Wolverhampton over the coming years.”

Both organisations will identify ways to support development of the skills and increase confidence for studying at higher levels, including Access courses, Foundation degrees and work-based learning modules. They will meet regularly to share best practice and develop joint opportunities for develop their respective and combined workforces.
 
The MoU, which will run for an initial three years, was signed at the University of Wolverhampton on Tuesday (Sept 29) by the Vice-Chancellor Professor Geoff Layer and Mr Tom Wilson, unionlearn Director.
 
ENDS

Picture: unionlearn Director Tom Wilson (L) with University Vice-Chancellor Professor Geoff Layer.

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