The role of union learning representatives and their impact on England’s vocational education and training system

Abstract

This paper outlines the origins and development of union learning representatives (ULRs). It summarises recent research on their profile, role and impact. ULRs have been increasingly recognised by government as intermediaries that can engage with “hard-to-reach” employees and help stimulate and meet their demand for learning and skills. The paper also considers the role of the ULR in relation to trade union representative and public administrative functions. It concludes that a statutory framework is now required which optimises union and ULR leverage on employers over the provision of learning and skills.