Interview with Sue Antrobus - RCN Learning and Development Manager

In support of the article Opening many doors, on page three of the 15 June 2011 issue of RCN Bulletin.

Sue Antrobus, RCN Learning and Development Manager, answers your questions about the learning and development and mentorship offered to RCN representatives.

What learning and development will I be offered as a new representative?

Following accreditation they can access a foundation module for all representatives and a development module specifically for stewards, safety representatives or learning representatives.

What learning and development will I get after that?

Experienced representatives have access to high quality continuing professional development (CPD) modules.

How will I know what learning is best for me?

New and experienced representatives will be signposted by their mentor to learning that will really help them to develop their practice as an RCN representative.

How much time will I get with my mentor?

The RCN’s mentorship programme is being rolled out over the next five years. It now includes up to six hours mentorship for new and experienced representatives. This is organised through your local office.

How is the learning and development for representatives organised?

It is based on the principles of work-based learning and combines facilitated learning with structured supported learning. The programme aims to make the process of choosing a pathway simple. The pathways are based on National Occupational Standards for Trade Union Representatives in the workplace (ENTO standards) and are organised into three modules.