22/04/2026
Please see below the member learning dates for May 2026. You can follow the link to the Padlet, which provides the details for each of the courses below.
Member learning (padlet.com)
The Padlet also provides information on UNISON Bursaries and Grants & how to apply to the Skills Academy - access to 600 E-learning Courses
To book any of our courses, email educationni@unison.co.uk. Please provide your Name and Membership number, which will be in the email, contact details, branch and workplace, and include which course and dates you want to register for.
Interview Skills For Support Staff
When: 6th of May, 6pm - 9pm & 9th of May, 10am - 1pm
Where: Virtual
Increasingly, schools and the Education Authority are using competency-based interview processes.
This short session will introduce you to writing your application form and translating your experience into positive examples of your skills at the interview.
Women's Health & History - Residential - limited spaces available
When: 9th & 10th of May, 12pm Saturday - 2pm Sunday
Where: Ballygally Castle Hotel, Ballygally, Larne
This is an overnight residential bringing women members together to learn how issues affecting women's health have changed over the past 100 years.
It will introduce you to some of the women from the past, those who led the way, challenging conditions for women in the mills and factories, who campaigned for the vote and who were at the forefront of the development of the NHS.
It will chart the more recent history of the impact of the Troubles on women's health as well as the changes in local health provision.
Travel and accommodation expenses are available for this course.
Supporting Children's Emotional Regulation
When: 12th of May, 3:30pm - 5:30pm
Where: Virtual
Emotional regulation is a skill that children and young people develop through their life experiences; they need appropriate adult support to do so. As adults, we often feel ill-equipped to provide this support.
This workshop aims to provide a solid understanding of children's emotional development- a crucial knowledge base - before moving on to explore relevant strategies.
This workshop includes group discussions and a range of practical activities to enhance learning.
Delivered by STRIVE NI
Dementia: Supporting People with Dementia To Feel Safe & Live Well
When: 12th of May, 10am - 4pm
Where: UNISON, Galway House, Belfast
This workshop provides an overview of dementia and ways in which people with
The workshop covers a variety of topics, including the reasons behind the increasing number of people being diagnosed with dementia. Participants will learn about the different parts of the brain, how dementia impacts the way the brain works and ways to promote brain health and reduce the risk and impact of dementia.
Simulation learning will allow participants to experience the impact of sensory changes associated with ageing. The workshop will also provide insights into interventions and environmental adaptations that can be used to alleviate and minimise stress and distress for people with dementia.
The training is designed to improve understanding and alleviate fears and anxiety around dementia. Using an informal and participatory style, the workshop is ideal for members seeking to understand dementia, those with a family member or friend with dementia, and healthcare professionals caring for people with dementia.
Delivered by Dr Una Lynch. A registered public health nurse for over 30 years, she has an MSc from Trinity College Dublin and a Doctorate in Governance from Queen's University, Belfast.
Menopause in the Workplace
When: 13th of May, 6pm - 9pm
Where: UNISON, Galway House, Belfast
Many women will experience menopause symptoms, which can be a real challenge and impact their day-to-day lives. This course has been designed to create greater awareness of the menopause as a workplace issue.
The course aims to:
ยท Create awareness of the menopause and the symptoms women can experience.
ยท Help reps consider various workplace factors that may negatively impact workers experiencing the menopause.
ยท Consider practices and environments in the workplace that may put the health and safety of menopausal women at risk and/or may be considered discrimination against workers experiencing the menopause.
ยท Consider best practices for workplaces and unions to tackle the workplace issues facing workers experiencing the menopause.
Best wishes
Education Team
