Skip to start of page content | Skip to main navigation | Home | Accessibility | Contact Us | Text Only | Site Map | View Graphic Version

Welcome to the Lancashire Branch of Unison

TUC Courses for Union Members at Blackburn College

New ICT Courses for Union Members

Trade Unions are moving with the times and are able to offer members opportunities to gain up to date skills and qualifications in Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

The TUC Education Centre is offering three main courses:

1. Introduction to Computers for TU activists & members

(Leading to Open College certification)

2. Intermediate ICT for TU activists & members

(Leading to Open College certification)

3. European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)

(Now a level 2 qualification) more details

The TUC compter training programme receives major support from Blackburn College. This means that trade union activists and members enjoy free tuition/materials on the Open College Courses (fees apply on the ECDL courses).

Which is the right course for me?

Introduction to Computing for TU members

This course is for absolute or near beginners. The starting point is switching the machine on and course members progress to using different programs, typing letters, doing accounts, making graphs and using Desk Top Publishing. We are an Adult Centre and the tutors are supportive and friendly. We use up to date equipment and use industry standard software.

Intermediate Computing for TU members

This is a follow on from the basic Intro course. It deepens and extends the skills of members who are more familiar with the use of computers. As well as reinforcing key elements of the Intro course, the Intermediate syllabus contains three main elements: Developing and using Power Point Presentations, effective use of Email and Internet and more Advanced Word Processing skills.

European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)

This is a suitable follow on from the two previous courses, is broader in scope and is, of course, more challenging as a level 2 course. The eight modules that make up the course are as follows: Uses and Concepts of ICT, File Structures and Management, Word Processing, Spreadsheets and Graphs and Charts, Database, Presentations and Internet with E-Mail. Managing ICT in a legal framework. This course is a Level 2 course and runs for 36 weeks arranged around the modules.


FLEXIBLE AND FRIENDLY

The teaching sessions are timed to allow shift workers and carers some flexibility as to which session they attend. Sessions will in general be: Mornings 9.00 am till 12.00 noon, Afternoons 2.30 pm till 5.30 pm and Evening sessions from 6.00 pm till 9.00 pm.

Shift workers for example may attend a morning session when they are working late shift and an afternoon or evening session when they are working early shift. Students may, at times, need to change the day they attend and in some cases this can be accommodated.

Applicants will be notified of their course details two/three weeks prior to the start and we would expect you to confirm attendance by post or by telephone.


Print out APPLICATION FORM and return your application form to:

Unison Branch Office,
Room D43,
County Hall,
Preston.
PR1 OLD

Applications for training/seminars/conferences MUST be sent to the Branch - not directly to the provider - for verification by the Branch Education Co-ordinator or Assistant Education Co-ordinator;  expenses will NOT be paid for attendance on courses which have not been approved by the Branch.  Training courses should be selected closest geographically to a steward's workplace or home.


What other TU members have said about the courses:

“You can learn so much. This course is, in a word Brilliant.” Ron AMICUS

“Since I did this course I am much more confident and have been able to get a better job.” Antoinette UNISON

I really enjoyed this course a lot. Everything was explained clearly to us. I got everything I needed from this course. Tom GMB

If you have any questions/concerns please contact:

John Murphy/Alan McShane/Neil Wilkinson

Blackburn Trade Union Education Centre
15b Preston New Road
Blackburn
Lancashire
BB2 1AR

Phone: 01254 677712
Phone: 01254 677756
Phone: 01254 278400