Wigan Council’s adult learning and skills team has received high praise from Ofsted inspectors for their role in helping learners thrive.
The report, released this week following a visit last December, awarded the local authority a rating of “Good” in all five assessment areas. The report commends Wigan Council for creating “a peaceful, supportive, and inclusive learning environment for learners to flourish,” noting that “almost all learners achieve their qualifications and progress to further learning or work.”
Leader of Wigan Council, Councillor David Molyneux MBE, expressed his satisfaction with the inspectors’ comments, stating, “I am pleased with the inspectors’ feedback and delighted that our adult education service has been acknowledged. The team works tirelessly to offer a diverse range of skills and training options based on upcoming job opportunities to ensure learners can advance to further training or employment.”
The report describes tutors as “well-qualified and experienced in their vocational subject…using their expertise to provide learners with activities that help them acquire new knowledge and apply new skills.”
Councillor Dane Anderton, chair of the Adult Education Board, commented, “This outcome is a testament to the hard work of our team, who strive to provide a varied education programme focused on achieving the best outcomes for our learners. I extend my thanks to them for their ongoing support and dedication.”
The inspectors also highlighted the effectiveness of the service’s partnership working, noting that leaders collaborate with various partners to develop a comprehensive curriculum for adult learners. This includes working with the local further education college, training providers, and the Department for Work and Pensions to offer clear pathways to further learning or employment.
Wigan’s Adult Learning and Skills programme aims to offer as many free courses for residents as possible. Funded through the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, the service provides a range of skills and learning opportunities, from English and Maths to Health and Social Care, in accessible venues across Wigan Borough, such as libraries and community centres.
Learners also have access to a variety of council services and support, with the report noting that “most learners benefit from a wide range of support services through Wigan Council services, such as debt management, healthy living, and mental well-being.”
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