Steve Croke, CWU Branch Lead Union Learning Representative (ULR) was awarded the 2015 Midlands TUC Highly Commended Certificate for ULR of the year. Steve left school with few qualifications but through workplace learning he now has a degree in Trade Union Studies. He became a ULR to ensure that the reps have the skills to do the job. The big difference that Steve has made is that he has helped reps and members to build their confidence in what they are capable of achieving. He believes that access to education is vital; education empowers people so that given the correct training it becomes harder for people in positions of power to mistreat "the average Joe".

Steve has achieved a BA (Hons) in Trade Union & Labour Studies which is a massive achievement for him. This achievement is one that he is very proud of and rightly so. He is the only member of his family to go to University. His philosophy is that if he can achieve a degree after leaving school with few qualifications that anyone can do it. This achievement demonstrates that not only is Steve assisting reps and members in achieving their learning goals but he has sought to improve his skill set also. This level of commitment to learning assists him in helping reps and members reach their true potential by passing on the knowledge that he has received. Steve had to invest a lot of time, effort and research to achieve this degree. At times trying to balance the busy workload of administering and facilitating learning opportunities and the extremely high workload involved in studying for a degree must have been very challenging. However, if Steve was under pressure he never let it show or impact on his Branch commitments.

Steve became a ULR to ensure that reps have the skills to do their job. He believes in training reps to a high standard so that precious time is not wasted by applying agreements and procedures incorrectly. He believes in using a variety of teaching styles to bring out the best in the people under his tutelage. He is also very passionate about e-learning and utilises these online tools to maximise the effectiveness of the learning environment. He has introduced in conjunction with various learning establishments courses to improve people’s language and numeracy at learning centres across the branch. He believes in giving the members a balanced view of the challenges involved in the union and labour movement. His dedication to his own education has given him the confidence to teach and also inspire confidence in his pupils. He has the ability to listen to people which, in turn makes them feel valued and their opinions matter. Steve has a huge range of learning based qualifications and regularly does tutoring. 

Steve successfully negotiated an agreement for fulltime release from duty for his role that will stand the test of time for representatives that follow. He has successfully negotiated agreements that secured the funding for the delivery of courses for English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). Steve has developed and designed an IT skills course for absolute beginners. Steve has worked with his ULR committee to be creative in providing learning opportunities for members. He has always been prepared to lend a hand to assist other ULRs.

Steve has attended many open days for other branches to lend his support and assistance. This demonstrates the time and effort he is prepared to put in to drive forward learning opportunities. The big difference that Steve has made is that he has helped reps and members to build their confidence in what they are capable of achieving. This self-realisation that you can achieve whatever you want to if you have the faith to try money can’t buy.    

Steve Croke said:

I am living proof of the power of education and the impact it can have on the lives of ordinary working people. My life has totally changed since I took that leap of faith and challenged my own perception that I was too old to learn. I now constantly challenge other people’s perceptions that they are too old to learn and take great pride in watching their confidence grow as their educational journey unfolds.