UNISON Ulearn Northern Ireland

I’ve worked in the school for over 16 years and have completed work related training that’s provided by the Education Board and the school. When I was a rep for UNISON I completed a range of training including health & safety and there was a wide range available if you were interested. They gave me confidence to think about other types of learning.

Due to the particular needs of the children that I work with I embarked in a Diploma in Autistic Spectrum Disorder on a distant learning web-based medium with the University of Birmingham. The Board supported me through financing my learning but I found it a constant struggle to find the time to study and the opportunity to implement my learning exercises. However, I feel much more confident in my existing practice and have increased my participation as a proactive team member with staff and on occasion, giving advice to the school Board. I completed the Diploma and enjoyed the flexible approach to learning that the course offered. I am restricted due to my chosen field of study but am hoping to progress onto modularised learning within the higher education level.