TUC appoints head of new union academy

The TUC has appointed its head of learning services, Liz Smith, as chief executive of its planned union academy which will bring together all the TUC's learning and training services.

The TUC claims the academy, which will operate from April 2006, will "transform workplace training for staff in England". It will offer guidance on training for employers and employees, with courses ranging from essential skills like reading, writing and numeracy to MBA business studies courses at colleges, universities and workplaces.