UCU training FAQS

Q:
Why should I train? Click here for the full answer
Q:
How do UCU courses run? Click here for the full answer
Q:
How much do courses cost? All courses are funded centrally via members' subscriptions so there will be no cost to you or your branch. You will also be reimbursed for your travel and any childcare costs. A UCU Members training expenses form will be given out on the course. All your expenses should be recorded on this form and handed back to the tutor at the end of the course. You will need to keep all receipts and attach them to your form. Expenses cannot be paid without an accompanying itemised receipt.
Q:
Where do courses run? UCU courses run in variety of regional locations. Members travelling to UCU training courses are requested to use the cheapest, easily available, standard class rail fare wherever possible. Members travelling by car will receive a payment based on the mileage used. Members are responsible for making their own travel arrangements and bookings, which will be reimbursed after attendance on the course.
Q:
What are the start and finish times? All of our courses start at 9.30 and finish at 4.30. Participants are expected to attend the full course they apply for.
Q:
Are UCU courses accredited? Apart from our shorter 1 day courses all of the UCU programme is accredited via the Open College Network Click here for the full answer
Q:
Can I apply for courses running out of my region? Possibly, places are reserved for members and reps who work within that region however on occasion there may be spare places. If you register your interest with a course out of region your name will be put onto a reserve list. Should a place come available you will be notified.
Q:
What if a course that I want to attend isn't running in my region? There is an expression of interest form which you can complete which logs your interest. If we receive sufficient numbers we can organise an additional course.
Q:
How do I arrange time off to attend training? When applying to attend a course, please inform your local branch learning rep or equivalent branch officer. This is particularly important as you may need support from your branch in securing your statutory rights to time-off. Click here for the full answer
Q:
If I work part time and I attend training on a day that I wouldn't normally be working should I still get paid? Staff who work part time are entitled to be paid for the same amount of time as full timers. . Click here for the full answer
Q:
What happens if I have a place on a course and find that I can no longer attend? You must let us know as soon as you are able so that we can avoid unnecessary expenditure and offer your place to another UCU member.
Q:
Are UCU courses residential? In the most part no, however requests will be considered if you are attending a course out of region, a non-commutable distance from where you live or in special circumstances. The UCU administrator organising the course will be able to advise you.
Q:
How do I organise training sessions that are not part of the national training programme? It is possible that we can run tailor made training sessions or briefings according to the needs of an individual branch. We normally require a minimum of 12 members to run a session however, please contact your regional office in the first instance to discuss this option. Click here for the full answer
Q:
Can I attend reps training whilst I am on sick leave? No. If you have taken sick leave absence from work we advise you not to attend a UCU training course as you potentially may face disciplinary action if your employer were to find out. Click here for the full answer

PrintPrint this page
Share