ADULT LEARNERS’ WEEK GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

RMT helpline 0800 3763706 :: june 2009 :: RMTnews 19 A dult Learners’ Week (ALW) was a big success across the country last month with RMT Union Learning Reps (ULRs) pulling out all the stops. ULRs have proven that they can be inventive and resourceful, giving potential learners something a bit different alongside meeting the needs of those wanting English, maths and computer refresher courses. ULRs at Stagecoach Devon held their event in the busy canteen in Exeter bus depot – with taster sessions in British Sign Language, and staff from local colleges came along to give advice about the learning opportunities available. Similar events where held in Paignton and Torquay. ULRs at the P2L project (a joint trade union and Southern Trains initiative) opened their 4th learning centre, based in Victoria Station. The centre will run courses in maths, English, French, Spanish, and will hold the ever popular art lessons. This centre shows what can be done when ULRs from different unions work together for a common goal. ULRs at Northern Rail and National Express East Coast (NXEC) organised learning events across both rail networks. Members were given the opportunity to find out about local courses and to meet with their ULRs for learning interviews. At NXEC, events took place at Kings Cross, Bounds Green and Leeds. Sessions were delivered on e-learning, understanding financial jargon and health and well-being. At some stations there was a chance to try a driver simulator. The NXEC Learning Resource Centre (LRC) at Kings Cross was re-launched after its relocation across the station. Northern ULRs held events at Newcastle, Sheffield and Leeds. A literacy and numeracy quiz gave employees a chance to win a Nintendo DS Lite and Brain Teaser game. Health and well- being was promoted at Leeds and employees were treated to a relaxing massage. The Northern Rail ULRs have also been busy carrying out learning interviews with their colleagues as part of a companywide survey. Network Rail ALW events started in Barnetby where Grimsby College provided tasters in jewellery making as well as advice on courses such as maths, English and IT. Learners were able to find out more about the ITQ qualification and express their interest. The Grimsby Horticultural Society showed how to make button holes for that special occasion and how to put together an arrangement for a hanging basket. The Open University were also there to discuss HE level courses. ULR Tony Hutton held one-to-one chats with learners and explained the RMT Bursary scheme. Similar events will take place at depots in Hitchin and Bournemouth in June. Eurostar employees were jiving on the concourse at Ashford International and others had the opportunity to learn how to play golf. Learners took advantage of a massage and getting their nails done before signing up to NVQ level 2s ranging from customer service to business administration. ULR Wendy Dale demonstrated how to make the most of your plants by taking cuttings. At Temple Mills, ULR James Liness organised a motorcycle safety event run by the Metropolitan Police service. The week also saw the launch of the newly located Kings Cross Learning Resource Centre, which was opened by RMT general secretary Bob Crow and National Express human resources director Andy Meadows. ADULT LEARNERS’ WEEK GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH Which course? Learners see what’s on offer in Leeds Ramsgate Adult Learners’ Week Adult Learners’ Week at the Red Star Learning Centre