Trade Union Shop Steward and Leadership Training

Trade Union Shop Steward and Leadership Training

Empower South African Shop Stewards Under Current Labour Frameworks

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Platform:
Online
In-class
Date Venue Duration
14 - 15 December 2026 Sandton, Gauteng 2 Days

Course Introduction

Empower your Trade Union Shop Stewards with our comprehensive course designed specifically for the South African workplace. This training program covers essential topics such as the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), Collective Bargaining and CCMA processes, the Employment Equity Act (EEA), and Labour Relations Best Practices. Through a blend of expert-led sessions, practical exercises, and interactive case studies, participants will gain a deep understanding of their roles and responsibilities, enhancing their ability to advocate effectively for their members. 

 

Prospen Africa’s Trade Union Shop Steward and Leadership Training course is ideal for current and aspiring Trade Union Shop Stewards, union representatives, and anyone involved in labour relations and workplace advocacy. Delivered in a dynamic and engaging manner, the program ensures that attendees are not only informed but also equipped with practical skills through role-playing, group discussions, and mock hearings. Join us to build a stronger, more knowledgeable, and effective representation for your union members. 

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this Trade Union Shop Steward and Leadership Training, participants will be able to: 

  • Explain the rights, responsibilities, and functions of a shop steward within the South African labour relations framework 
  • Apply the key provisions of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA) to everyday workplace situations 
  • Understand and apply the collective bargaining process, including preparation, negotiation, and effective communication techniques 
  • Navigate CCMA conciliation, mediation, and arbitration processes, and prepare members effectively for hearings 
  • Apply the Employment Equity Act (EEA), including current legislative developments, to workplace equity and anti-discrimination matters 
  • Represent members fairly and effectively in grievance and disciplinary processes 
  • Promote a safe, healthy, and inclusive workplace in line with occupational health and safety requirements 

Who should attend?

  • Trade Union Shop Stewards 
  • Current Shop Stewards 
  • Aspiring Shop Stewards 
  • Union Representatives 
  • Regional and National Union Officers 
  • Union Organisers 
  • Trade Union Members 
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Training Methodology

Our diverse instructional approaches ensure effective learning:

– Lectures & Presentations: Engage with expert-driven, stimulating content.
– Course Material: Access well-crafted supporting resources.
– Group Work: Collaborate on discussions and case studies for practical insights.
– Workshops & Role-Play: Participate in immersive, scenario-based activities.
– Practical Application: Focus on applying theoretical knowledge in real situations.
– Post-Training Support: Receive extensive support after training for skill implementation.

Training Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Trade Unions and Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA)
Introduction to Trade Unions in South Africa
  • History and role of trade unions
  • Rights and responsibilities of shop stewards
Overview of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA)
  • Purpose and scope of the BCEA
Key provisions:
  • Working hours
  • Overtime
  • Leave entitlements, including the current unified parental leave framework following the Constitutional Court's judgment in Van Wyk and Others v Minister of Employment and Labour (3 October 2025)
  • Termination of employment
  • The current BCEA earnings threshold of R269,600.90 per annum (R22,466.74 per month), effective 1 May 2026
Practical Application of BCEA
  • Case studies and real-world examples
  • Group discussions and Q&A session

Module 2: Collective Bargaining and Negotiation Skills
Understanding Collective Bargaining
  • Definition and importance
  • Legal framework in South Africa
The Collective Bargaining Process
  • Stages of collective bargaining
  • Preparing for negotiations
Effective Negotiation Skills
  • Communication techniques
  • Strategies and tactics in negotiations
  • Handling conflicts during negotiations
Practical Exercises
  • Role-playing negotiation scenarios
  • Group feedback and analysis

Module 3: CCMA Processes and Dispute Resolution
Introduction to the CCMA (Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration)
  • Role and functions of the CCMA
  • When and how to approach the CCMA
CCMA Processes
  • Conciliation
  • Mediation
  • Arbitration, aware of current CCMA case law such as De Wet v CCMA, which confirmed that delays in taking disciplinary action are not automatically unfair and that fairness depends on context, the nature of the allegations, and employer justifications
Preparing for CCMA Hearings
  • Documentation and evidence gathering
  • Representing members effectively
Mock CCMA Hearing
  • Simulated CCMA hearing with participants
  • Feedback and discussion on the process

Module 4: Employment Equity Act (EEA)
Overview of the Employment Equity Act
  • Objectives and key provisions
  • Definitions of unfair discrimination and affirmative action
  • The Employment Equity Amendment Act's mandatory five-year sectoral numerical targets under Section 15A, covering 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2030 across 18 national economic sectors
Implementing Employment Equity in the Workplace
  • Employer and employee obligations
  • Employment equity plans and reporting
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion
  • Benefits of a diverse workplace
  • Strategies to promote inclusion
Case Studies and Group Activities
  • Analysing real-world scenarios
  • Group discussions and presentations

Module 5: Labour Relations Best Practices for Trade Union Members
Best Practices in Labour Relations
  • Building positive relationships with management
  • Effective communication strategies
Handling Grievances and Disciplinary Actions
  • Procedures for handling grievances
  • Representing members in disciplinary hearings, applying the current Code of Good Practice: Dismissal (effective September 2025, which replaced the previous Schedule 8 framework)
Promoting a Safe and Healthy Workplace
  • Occupational health and safety regulations
  • Role of shop stewards in ensuring compliance

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Success Stories

Discover how our courses enhance professionals’ effectiveness in their workplaces.

ELIDZ

Thrive as an Intern: Managing Anxiety, Building Resilience & Handling Rejection

The training was very insightful, contents shared are relatable, and the facilitator is amazing in such a way that he is able to reference practical examples to make concepts understandable and relatable to all. Listening and interacting with him is easy because he opens the platform for everyone, even when he is speaking, you are able to listen attentively with understanding because he is well informed, passionate, and well prepared. He knows his story. Lastly, the session is very interactive and interesting, you constantly looking forward to hear more and say more as well.

East London IDZ

Managing Anxiety, Building Resilience & Handling Rejection

The training was very insightful, and I learnt a lot about Resilience & Handling Rejection. I am glad I was part of the training

Central Bank of Lesotho

Unlock HR's Strategic Power with Modern HRIS

The programme was fascinating and informative.

FAQs –Trade Union Shop Steward and Leadership Training

Develop shop steward and trade union leadership skills covering labour relations, collective bargaining, workplace representation, conflict resolution, negotiation, and leadership.

What is covered in the Trade Union Shop Steward and Leadership Training?
The training covers trade union roles, shop steward responsibilities, the BCEA, collective bargaining, negotiation skills, CCMA processes, dispute resolution, the Employment Equity Act and labour relations best practices.
Who should attend Trade Union Shop Steward and Leadership Training?
The course is designed for current and aspiring trade union shop stewards, union representatives, regional and national union officers, union organisers and trade union members involved in workplace advocacy.
Does the course cover the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA)?
Yes. Participants learn about key BCEA provisions, including working hours, overtime, leave entitlements and termination of employment, supported by practical case studies and discussions.
Does the training cover collective bargaining and negotiation skills?
Yes. The programme covers the collective bargaining process, negotiation preparation, communication techniques, negotiation strategies, conflict management and practical role-playing exercises.
Does the Trade Union Shop Steward course cover CCMA processes?
Yes. Participants learn about the role and functions of the CCMA, conciliation, mediation and arbitration, preparing documentation and evidence, representing members and preparing for CCMA hearings through practical mock hearings.
Does the course cover grievances, disciplinary hearings and Employment Equity?
Yes. The training covers grievance procedures, representation during disciplinary hearings, Employment Equity Act requirements, unfair discrimination, affirmative action, workplace diversity and effective labour relations practices.

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