Training for RCN representatives in the South West region
If you are an RCN representative, you have the opportunity to acquire and further the skills and knowledge you need to fulfil your role through a dedicated learning and development programme.
The programme has three different levels (modules) designed to correspond to your level of experience and knowledge. The modules are described below, along with details of course dates, administration arrangements and nomination forms for each module. Some of the documents are in PDF format - see How to access PDF files.
Foundation module
If you are a new representative, shortly after you are accredited you will receive an invitation to go on the next available foundation module course. You will also receive the current edition of the Guide to the learning and development pathway for RCN representatives (April 2013 - December 2014) (PDF 984KB) and details of your mentor.
Your mentor - usually an RCN officer or assistant officer - will work with you and the learning and development facilitator to provide you with the individualised support you need to become an effective, competent and confident representative. You will need to contact your mentor to introduce yourself and decide how you are going to work together as part of your learning and development programme.
Further information and details of forthcoming foundation module course dates are available in the South West information pack 2013 - 2014 (PDF 156KB).
Development module
Once you have successfully completed the foundation module, you will be able to progress to the development module. Development module courses are specific to your role as an RCN steward, learning representative or safety representative.
You will need to discuss with your mentor which course is most suitable for you. To apply for any of these courses you need to complete the development module nomination form in the South West information pack 2013 - 2014 (PDF 156KB). The pack includes details of all development module course dates that are available.
The form should be signed off by your mentor and returned to Pam D'Silva, Representing and Influencing Team, RCN West Midlands Office, Lyndon House, 58-62 Hagley Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B16 8PE. You will then receive a letter confirming your place and further information about the course.
Advanced skills workshops
Experienced representatives can undertake further learning and development through advanced skills workshops and masterclasses and other opportunities. Places on these workshops are limited, and will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis. Further information and guidance is available in the current prospectus for Continuing learning and development for RCN representatives in England (April 2013 - March 2014) (PDF 810KB). If you are interested in an advanced skills workshop, you will need to complete the nomination form in the South West continuing learning and development information pack April 2013 - March 2014 (PDF 107KB). The pack includes details of all advanced skills workshops and other courses that are available.
The nomination form should be signed off by your mentor and returned to Pam D'Silva, Representing and Influencing Team, RCN West Midlands Office, Lyndon House, 58-62 Hagley Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B16 8PE. If you are granted a place on an advanced skills workshop, you will receive a letter of confirmation along with further information about the programme.
Additional information for representatives
Where the RCN has a recognition agreement, accredited representatives have a legal entitlement to reasonable paid time off for trade union duties, including learning and development. All course costs will be met by the RCN, including meals and travel, if you meet the criteria outlined in the RCN expenses policy and guidance (PDF 207KB). If you are unable to take up a place on a course you have booked, please contact the course administrator immediately so that we can offer the place to another person or avoid paying significant cancellation charges.