Chancellor Gordon Brown has opened a new purpose built Trade Union Education Centre in Newcastle College, built to accommodate growing demand for courses.

The centre is unique as a unionlearn centre delivering trade union education, learning, including learndirect, and supporting learning representatives. It is also the base for the TUC's Organising Academy, offering facilities to members, reps, officers and activists.

Speaking at the opening, Chancellor Gordon Brown said: “Nothing is more important for our country's future than the liberation of the potential of all our people. And nowhere has the trade union movement worked harder over may decades to ensure the best opportunities for working men and women.”

The centre has also recently been given the Matrix Excellence Award for the high standard of advice and guidance given by its staff to learners.