The Fórsa Skills Academy has launched its brand-new training calendar, running from September 2025 to August 2026, and it's filled with a wide range of opportunities for professional growth, union empowerment, and personal development. 

Designed in response to the interests and priorities of Fórsa members, this year’s programme is built to equip activists, representatives, and members with practical tools to thrive both in the union and beyond. 

Fiona Dunne Director of Membership Training and Development said: “We’re delighted to share this calendar with our members. We’ve shaped this programme by listening to what people need — in their union roles, and in their everyday lives. Our aim is to create a learning space that’s relevant, engaging and empowering.” 

Courses range from workplace essentials to leadership development and include both in-person and online options. Here’s a snapshot of what’s on offer: 

• Branch Chairs and Secretaries training – learn everything you need to know about running effective meetings and organising your branch. 
• Time Management – This course delivers practical strategies with immediate impact, including effective planning, task prioritisation and smart goal setting. 
• Resilience Building Workshop – a course that provides tools and templates to build personal resilience and reduce stress. 
• Public Speaking, Communications and Digital skills training – we now have three exciting courses that cover all aspects of communication! 

Regular favourites Fórsa Induction and our monthly Lunch and Learn will return and run throughout the next training year. 

Details of upcoming courses, along with application forms, are emailed directly to each branch chairperson, secretary, and training officer 4–6 weeks in advance of the training dates. Courses are also promoted in Fórsa’s fortnightly member bulletins. Registration links for the new calendar will be issued from mid-June.

We know life gets busy, that’s why we’re sharing the full calendar now, so you can plan ahead and make space for your upskilling and development throughout the year. 

Explore the full 2025–2026 calendar and see what’s coming up.

Live this month: Lunch & Learn - Fórsa Mentoring Programme - Friday 30th May – Online 

The Fórsa mentoring programme, launched at the union’s biennial conference in 2024, is an initiative to supplement training provided by the Skills Academy and provide support and encouragement to our trained representatives who might require some additional guidance to build confidence whilst implementing their learning.   

For our May Lunch & Learn session scheduled for Friday 30th, we’ll hear directly from past participants of Fórsa’s mentoring programme about what worked well and how it benefited them and their workplaces. Our external programme facilitator will also speak on how mentoring strengthens union capacity and creates long-term value for Fórsa. 

Take this opportunity to be inspired, build your confidence, and see how mentoring can support your journey — register now and get involved! 

Register here.

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