Working with trade unions

The OU has a proud relationship with the trade union movement in Wales. For several years, we’ve worked with unions to help their members discover lifelong learning, plan their careers and develop new skills. 

Learning through your union

Visit our union learning website

If you’re a worker in Wales, you can apply to the Wales union learning fund to support your study. The fund can be used towards an Open University microcredential, or and Access course which can sometimes be the first step towards studying for a degree.

Future Ready

Future Ready is a free, online course to help trade union members shape their own careers. It’s delivered at lunch time for an hour a week, over eight weeks.

Book your place on the next course

Learning is for life. All workers should have the opportunity to upskill and build their confidence through learning. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with the OU to support workplace learners across Wales.

Shavanah Taj General Secretary, Wales TUC Cymru

During the programme, you’ll focus on eight specific skills which will help you discover your values, strengths and goals.

We’ve developed Future Ready alongside some of Wales’ trade unions. 

Continued professional development

We have a great relationship with union learning reps, green reps, health and safety reps and other union staff. Many have joined our OpenLearn Champions programme to find out about free learning and share free courses with their members. We also offer a range of short courses, microcredentials and Access courses – which for many are the first step towards formal study.

Get in touch with the team