Issue - meetings

The Board received a report from the Executive Director, Environment and Regeneration, which provided an overview of the current services provided by Halton Adult Learning and provided a summary of the key performance indicators for the academic year 2023/24.

Halton’s Adult Learning service delivered a range of accredited and non-accredited, community learning courses in Runcorn and Widnes, which aimed not only to improve residents lives, but also address the skills gaps in the Borough and across the Liverpool City Region (LCR).  The service also delivered Family Learning in schools across Halton and co-ordinated the Pathways to Teaching Programme, on behalf of the LCR Combined Authority (LCRCA).  Further, the Adult Learning team also co-delivered the Supported Internship Programme with Halton People into Jobs (HPIJ).  This service aimed to improve the breadth of the curriculum offer in order to give adults within the Borough wider opportunities for development.

The overview included information on the following programmes:

·       Maths, English and Digital Functional Skills;

·       English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL);

·       Education pathways;

·       Test and Learn Programmes;

·       Family Learning; and

·       The Multiply initiative.

The report outlined the Adult Learning’s performance and achievements.  In relation to adult enrolments, these had almost grown by 50% since 2021-22.   Additionally, the retention rate overall across the service was good, at 91.1%.  It was noted however, that there were concerns with the retention and achievement rates for Maths and English.

Members enquired about the promotion of the Adult Learning Service.  This was done in the traditional way using brochures and flyers but it was also promoted by the staff running the service and on its Facebook page.  The Family Learning Service was currently delivered by two qualified ex-primary school teachers.

In response to other questions, it was noted that funding for Multiply, a national initiative, would come to an end in March 2025.  Also, clients were provided with feedback forms after using any of the services that came under Adult Learning.

Following a request, the e-version of the prospectus and the employer support information would be sent to the Board following the meeting.

RESOLVED:  That the report be received and the curriculum intent and its alignment with the local skills context be noted.