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.
Module one
Within three months of accrediting you as a new representative, we will send you an offer of a place on module one (also known as the foundation module). You will receive the Learning and development prospectus for RCN representatives in England 2009/10 (PDF, 1.99MB), a regional information pack and details of your mentor. Your mentor - usually an RCN 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 about module one is available from Vicky Bond at the RCN South West Office. You can contact Vicky at RCN South West, 3 Capital Court, Bittern Road, Sowton Industrial Estate, Exeter, EX2 7FW Telephone: 0845 456 7859 or email victoria.bond@rcn.org.uk.
View the module one course dates (Word 51KB).
Module two
Once you have successfully completed module one, you will be able to progress to module two (also known as the development module). Module two 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 nomination form for module two (PDF, 38KB). The form should be signed off by your mentor and returned to Pam D'Silva, Learning and Development Administrator, 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.
View the module two course dates (Word 61KB).
Module three
Experienced representatives can undertake further learning and development through module three. Places are limited and available to representatives by nomination only. If you are interested in and nominated for a module three course, you will need to complete the nomination form for module three (PDF, 38KB). The form should be signed off by your mentor and returned to Annette Inett, Learning and Development Administrator, RCN West Midlands Office, Lyndon House, 58-62 Hagley Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B16 8PE. If you are granted a place on a Module three workshop or master class, a letter of confirmation will be sent to you, along with further information about the programme.
View the module three course dates (Word 36KB).
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 activists' expenses guidance (Word 55KB). 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.