Joint Union Rep Training
Representative Training
Managing Difficult Conversations
Conflict, complaints and confrontation. Practical techniques for the conversations nobody enjoys.
DateWednesday 3 March 2027
Time9.30am – 3.30pm
VenueINTO Headquarters, Belfast
About this course
Some of the hardest parts of the representative's role are not legal or procedural at all. They are the conversations: with an angry member, with a distressed colleague, or with a principal who does not want to hear what you have come to say.
This joint UTU, INTO and NEU course offers practical, tested techniques for those situations, with plenty of opportunity to practise in a supportive setting.
What the day covers
Preparing properly for a conversation you are dreading
Active listening and staying with the issue rather than the personality
Managing your own reaction when a conversation becomes heated
Dealing with an angry or distressed member
Challenging a senior colleague constructively and without damage
Breaking bad news to a member honestly and with care
Knowing when to pause a conversation and come back to it
Who should attend
Any school or safety representative who wants to handle difficult conversations more confidently. No prior training is required.
Booking
Places are free but limited and must be booked in advance.
Book your place
 
What is included
Free of charge to members of UTU, INTO and NEU. Lunch and refreshments are provided, along with a full set of course materials.
 
Need help?
Contact the UTU office on 028 9066 2216 or email office@utu.edu.
Working together for
teachers & principals
INTO UTU NEU