QTEC: Knowledge, skills and more
Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 128 No 1, 17 February 2023, page no. 21
The Queensland Teachers’ Education Centre (QTEC) is the QTU section responsible for coordinating Union and industrial training, with a special focus on supporting Workplace Union Reps, Principal Union Reps and other position holders.
Why do union training?
- Increase your knowledge and skills: Learn about supporting members in the workplace, industrial agreements, negotiation strategies, effective communication skills and much more.
- Stay current: Keep up-to-date with changes in education and the industrial landscape that affect the profession.
- Network: Network with other Union delegates, build relationships beyond the workplace, and gain valuable insights.
- Build credibility: By demonstrating a commitment to professional development through union training, Reps can enhance their credibility within the workplace.
- Strengthen the Union: Effective Union Rep training helps to strengthen the overall power of the Union, ensuring better working conditions for all members. As they say, "Knowledge is power!"
What Union Reps and school leaders say about QTEC training
Many members find that Union training benefits them personally and professionally and goes hand in hand with their career progression as a teacher or school leader.
Keri Pollock, pedagogical coach and Workplace Union Rep, said: "As a teacher, I participated in Union training opportunities and led campaigns in my workplace. I’ve since gone on to middle leader positions in my school, which I would never have thought I could do without the leadership skills and confidence I have been able to build though my Union experiences."
Chris Shevelling, a deputy principal and current acting Sunshine Coast Organiser, said: "My involvement in Union training has enhanced my understanding of the industrial agreements and the department’s policies. I apply this knowledge in my role every day. Trust is the number one element for me in leadership. When staff and members can trust that your decision-making includes 'why', 'how' and 'what', it is invaluable."
Union training in 2023
Union training is advertised directly to Union Reps in each region via email. You can also view the Semester 1 schedule on the QTU website. Our offerings will be expanded this year, but currently include:
- Union Rep – Level 1, 2 and 3
- TAFE Union Rep training
- Local consultative committee extended training
- Occupational violence – recognise, respond, report
- Promotion panel training
- Navigating the industrial landscape for school leaders
- Working conditions extended training.