We offer financial support through educational bursariesand discounts on distance learning from a number of providers, including the Open University.

UNISON educational bursary scheme

This provides financial help with fees or course costs for UNISON members:

• on trade union, labour and women’s studies courses;
• in general non-vocational education;
• in vocational education relevant to work in the public services.

Application form: bursaries for trade union, labour and women’s studies courses [Word]

Application form: OU awards and book grants [Word]

Learning discounts for UNISON members

Members can get fee discounts for distance learning from:

• The Open University – UNISON members in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are entitled to a 10% discount on some OU courses. These are not available to members in England, because changes to the way higher education is funded in England.

• Accelerated Learning Systems – 10% discount on language and learning skills courses.

• ILEX Tutorial College – 10% discount on law courses (excluding legal practice course or postgraduate Diploma in Law).
• The Open College of the Arts – £50 off OCA tutored arts and craft courses for UNISON members and their families.