Back to school for Nick Whalen and other new MPs

They've already got a job, but newly elected MPs have a lot of learning to do, so they're heading toparliamentary pre-school.

"I was up for some training last Friday, this Monday and Tuesday, and I'll be going back next week to learn more about the constituency role of a member of Parliament," said the Liberal MP for St. John's East,NickWhalen, on Thursday.

• Meet the Class of 2015: Notable rookies headed to Parliament Hill

Many of the lessons are practical.

"Intake processes for Parliament, security and IT protocols at Parliament and House of Commons, how to hire staff, what skill sets the staff need, things like that," said Whalen.

As for tips onthe nitty gritty of parliamentary procedure, that's still to come.

"My training on that will happen a couple of days prior to the House first sitting. We're not hearing anything official butit might be sometime in early December," said Whalen.

"I'm going to rely a lot on my colleagues in caucus who are very experienced, people like Judy Foote, Yovonne Jones andScott Simms."

So far, they've been givingadvice on where to live in Ottawa, something Whalenis still trying to arrange.

Whalencalls Parliament Hill an impressive place.

"I'm really looking forward to taking my kids there next week when I'm sworn in, because it really is a beautiful, magical place and it's very inspiring."

In the meantime, he will set up his constituency office in St. John's Eastin the building occupied by his predecessor,New Democrat Jack Harris.

He and his family will alsotake a "much needed vacation" after the long campaign.

"We're working hard to transition, but also my family and I need some time together and then probably the third week in November start in on the business of Parliament."