About GFTU Learning

We all learn differently and at the GFTU we pride ourselves on providing topical and thought-provoking learning opportunities, which are sometimes beyond the classroom, such as a conference or live performance.

Knowledge is powerful and through learning, we develop understanding that stays with us, enabling us to be empowered to make a difference, to make more informed choices and support others to make a difference for themselves, their union, family and communities. 

From 30 minute online “bite size” sessions to residential training courses at our own hotel and training centre, there is something for everyone who is already active or wants to become active in their trade union.

Our aim is to inspire, educate and support trade union activists across the UK and beyond. You may be a new union member just finding out about how to get more involved in your union or a seasoned activist or possibly a full-time union officer, or possibly something in between.

Register for Updates

The Educational Trust's regular Education Bulletin outlines new learning opportunities, and provides useful learning resources as well as keeping you up to date on any changes to our courses. To register your interest in receiving these updates, please email georgiaw@gftu.org.uk.

How to Apply

If you are part of an affiliated union, please select the course you want to apply for here and complete our online booking form. It is imperative that you do not use auto-fill to complete this form. 

If you are part of a non-affiliated union, before booking onto a course, please first confirm authorisation from your union that you can do so. To find out prices of courses for non-affiliates and for any other education queries, please find the contact details of our Education Administrator below.

You can check whether or not you're with an affiliated union here.

We’ll get back to you quickly to confirm your place – we will need to contact your union to get your application authorised for GFTU residential courses.

Attending GFTU Residential Courses

We pride ourselves on welcoming a rich diversity of union members to our courses. We create a safe, tolerant space for everyone to take part and grow irrespective of ethnicity, religion, gender, disability and sexual orientation.

Our training programmes are run by experienced trade union educators who build courses that are lively, challenging and participative.

There will always be someone on hand to support you at all stages of your training programme – leading up to the course, during the course and afterwards (especially around helping you to deliver your action points).

Residential courses are usually held at Quorn Grange Hotel in Leicestershire which is owned by GFTU with all surpluses going back into running more courses and supporting the trade union movement. It’s a first class hotel with brilliant facilities and excellent food. You can find out more information about the hotel here.

Any Questions?

Contact our Education Administrator, Mark Robinson, via markr@gftu.org.uk or by calling 01509410978 if you have any questions about our courses.