Union learning representatives: Micro, meso and macro level workplace learning opportunities

This paper explores the role of union learning representatives (ULRs) in providing learning in the work place for migrant workers in a large British private sector company. It focuses specifically on the role of ULRs in supporting the English language learning of Polish immigrants working as bus drivers in Scotland and their learning experiences. It considers: the role played by the ULR in brokering and managing workplace learning and how the union – employer partnership was developed; the benefits of workplace learning for the ESOL learners and the role played by the ULRs in supporting learning. In addition, it examines how far this model of workplace learning is transferable to other workplaces. It concludes that this example of ULR-mediated learning has been effective in promoting learning at the micro and meso levels but questions whether this beneficial impact can lead to the mainstreaming of ULR-led learning at the macro level across all workplaces.