QTEC – strengthening workplace activism
Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 126 No 1, 12 February 2021, page no.8
In these uncertain times, when face-to-face events have not been possible, the Queensland Teachers’ Education Centre (QTEC) has gone online to continue offering its comprehensive training program for members across the state. In 2021, this online program will be expanded.
QTEC, which is responsible for the coordination, planning and delivery of the Union’s education and training program for QTU Union Reps, activists and members, intends to cater for those Reps and activists who are geographically isolated or simply prefer this mode of training delivery.
This expansion comes as the QTU farewells Pauline Gagiero, who has been QTEC Coordinator for more than 20 years. Pauline was instrumental in the creation and the success of the Queensland Teachers’ Education Centre from its opening in 2000, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank her for her more than 20 years of dedication and commitment to the Union and to wish her all the very best for a happy retirement.
Replacing Pauline as QTEC Coordinator is Natalie Meyer, who was formerly Metropolitan Central Organiser. This year, Natalie will be sharing the role with the QTU’s Research Assistant, Madonna Cullinan.
Both Natalie and Madonna bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role and are looking forward to continuing to enhance our training programs to benefit all members. In Natalie’s own words: “I believe that industrial education and training is essential to the Union’s success and meeting our strategic priorities. As the saying goes: ‘Give someone a fish, and you feed them for a day. Teach them to fish, and you feed them for a lifetime’.”
Throughout 2021, QTEC will be developing an exciting new curriculum framework to assist QTU Reps and members in understanding and asserting their industrial and professional rights. This work will also focus on the QTU number one priority of reducing teacher and school workload.
QTEC’s role
QTEC offers a range of courses, conferences and seminars for Union Reps and activists to support them in their important role as representatives of the QTU. Training is also provided for administrators, Area Council delegates, Aboriginal members and Torres Strait Islander members, women activists, TAFE activists, new educators and pre-service teachers.
Union Rep training is designed to provide the best possible outcomes for our Reps and is delivered by trained, experienced Union Organisers, Officers and outside professionals. The Teaching in State Education Award – State 2016 (Part 9, page 55) provides for up to five working days of industrial relations education leave which may be granted for attendance at Union training.
Training is held in Brisbane and regionally, including an annual Union Reps Conference held the Friday before March State Council in Brisbane as well as at least one regional Union Reps Conference later in the year. COVID-19 restrictions mean we will be looking a number of smaller regional conferences this year.
Training sessions for Union Reps, activists and members are advertised through QTEC directly to Workplace Reps, on the website, and locally through your QTU Organiser.
For further information about QTEC training, please contact the QTEC Coordinator at qtec@qtu.asn.au or visit www.qtu.asn.au/qtec