Learning

UNISON wants to help members realise their potential. We offer financial support to members taking part in various educational and learning opportunities, as well as learning discounts from a number of providers. We also offer grants to members studying on trade union and labour movement or women’s studies courses.

The number of grants is limited and they are awarded on a first come, first served, basis.

Open University awards
Open University awards are available to UNISON members undertaking 30 and 60 point Open University courses up to and including undergraduate level at their own expense. Awards are made as follows:

  • 60 point courses: £300
  • 30 point courses: £200

Download an application form

Trade Union and Labour Movement or Women’s Studies grants
Members studying these subjects can apply for the following:

  • Certificate or Diploma grants of up to £300 towards fees for members on Trade Union and Labour Movement or Women’s Studies courses
  • Bachelor or Masters Degree study: substantial grants for union reps studying Trade Union and Labour Movement or Women’s Studies degrees

Download an application form

Learning grants
These grants of up to £200 are intended to help members studying at levels up to and including undergraduate at their own expense on the following types of courses:

  • Trade Union and Labour Studies (where an applicant has not received a bursary)
  • non-vocational education up to and including undergraduate level (e.g. GCSE maths or English)
  • vocational education relevant to public service work up to and including undergraduate level

Download an application form

Grants for School Support Staff
To help you get on at work and develop your career, UNISON is offering personal learning development grants for members who are school support staff.

A limited number of awards of up to £300 each are being offered to help towards course fees.

Download an application form

Grants for Care Workers
To help you get on at work and develop your career, UNISON is offering personal learning development grants for

  • members who provide social care in residential homes or individuals’ own homes

A limited number of awards of up to £300 each are being offered to help towards course fees.

Download an application form

Learning discounts for UNISON members

Members can get fee discounts for distance learning from: