EDUCATING MEMBERS

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: november/december 2012 :: RMTnews 17 I am pleased to introduce the union’s education programme for next year offering educational opportunities for all members and officials. It is the most comprehensive programme the union has had for some time and it is being introduced by the union to complement the opening of the expanded RMT national education centre in Doncaster. The new expanded education centre sets out in bold terms the continuing commitment of the union to deliver the very best trade union education it can. As a result RMT can now offer two courses most weeks of 2013 and in future years. In the new Room One an expanded programme of core skills courses, courses essential for all of our existing branch officials and workplace reps and of course those members who wish to become an RMT representative. The new Room Two will offer a range of ‘specialist’ courses, again open to all RMT members, although completion of the Workplace Representatives Level One course is a minimum requirement. All our courses are delivered by your own RMT lay tutors, who are members drawn from across all sectors of the union and trained to deliver the courses. The full programmes are set out in this issue of RMT News overleaf so if there is one you wish to attend then complete the application form inside this issue, get it signed by your branch official and send it in. The union provides superb meals and accommodation free to members at the Centre as well as reimbursing all travel costs, the union can also assist with securing paid release to attend or reimbursement of any loss of earnings. Also next year there are courses scheduled for the RMT’s advisory committees and there is scope for other courses to be provided at weekends if this is what is needed by you the members. Regional councils will again be encouraged to arrange for any of the courses set out in the national programme to be delivered in the regions as this is sometimes a better option for members. In particular the three day workplace representatives introductory courses will be delivered in regions to best equip members to then attend and gain the maximum from the national courses at Doncaster. The 2013 programme is available on the RMT website and in a short time the application process will be available online as well, so members can apply to attend a course at the best time for them. The new online process also provides an education database to assist the union and ensures the branch secretary’s endorsement of any applications is preserved. Currently the Council of Executives is discussing the merits of accrediting our courses to offer those attending proper accredited education awards similar to those received on successful completion of a local college course. Naturally members will be kept informed of any progress on this matter. The struggles the union and its members face are amongst the toughest in living memory and RMT officials and activists are the vital frontline in protecting our members and advancing their demands. This education programme is designed to support them carrying out this role so I hope all members will consider taking up the challenge of representing your workmates and the union knowing that the training and education you need to do the job is in place. RMT’s national education officer Andy Gilchrist outlines the union’s new extended facilities EDUCATING MEMBERS