We’re delighted to share that following our recent Ofsted inspection, Westmorland and Furness Council’s Adult Learning Service has been rated "Good" overall, with "Outstanding" in both Behaviour and Attitudes, and Personal Development.
The inspectors recognised the welcoming and inclusive culture of the service, the significant personal development of our learners, and the transformational impact our work has on learners’ lives. That’s something we are very proud of.
- A few highlights from the report: Learners demonstrate exemplary behaviour and grow in confidence and resilience Outstanding provision for learners with high needs
- Strong leadership, personalised curriculums, and highly effective partnerships Tutors and staff support learners to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally
It was also excellent that we were given recognition for the warmth and inclusivity our learners feel and the way learners are empowered to take the next steps in their lives, whether that’s further education, employment, or building independence.
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Oksana's Learning Journey
Oksana Pereima studied Functional Skills English in Whitehaven this year and is now hoping to come back and do the GCSE English with us too): Click on the link and read about Oksana’s journey.
Oksana's Story
A Triumph of Confidence: Chelsea's Journey
When Chelsea first joined the class, it's truly heartwarming to see how far she's come. From those initial days of nervousness, where she'd keep her jacket on and feel tearful, she has blossomed into someone who is not only building her confidence but actively pursuing her dreams. Her dedication to working through Entry 3, Level 1, and Level 2 courses clearly shows her determination to learn and grow.
Chelsea's goals of building confidence, understanding her abilities, making her son and mum proud, and forging new friendships have all been wonderfully realized. It's clear her mindful approach, always ensuring she felts included and supported, which has played a crucial role in her progress, especially given her struggles with mental health. Being that listening ear and helping her navigate personal setbacks while setting new goals truly made a difference.
Her focused progression towards the health and social care sector, her dream career, has now paid off! It's fantastic news that with help on her CV and cover letter, she's secured employment with MHS. Shadowing shifts and continuing her training while still pursuing courses like Health and Safety and looking forward to her Level 2 Health and Care course in September, highlights her incredible drive.
Chelsea is an absolute credit to herself. She hasn't just pushed herself academically, but she's also grown immensely in her personal life. The fact that she can now "see a future" is the ultimate reward for all her hard work and your dedicated support. Congratulations to Chelsea on this remarkable achievement!
A Story of Resilience and Grit
Charlotte started her Functional Skills Maths L2 course with Adult Education 4 years ago, as she needed this qualification to proceed along her chosen career path. Having not studied maths for years and not being a particular maths fan, she struggled with the level of some of the topics and had the additional problems of needing childcare to attend classes and having little quiet time available to focus on home study. Charlotte did not pass the end of course exam, but undeterred, she came back to repeat the course again and again and again. By the 4th attempt she was within reach of the pass mark and after 2 more frustratingly close attempts, BINGO! A pass at the 7th attempt and a good pass too!
Charlotte’s message is, keep working, keep trying and you will succeed! So, if you’re wondering about doing a maths course, get in touch with your nearest centre and give it a go!
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Learners in Kendal have been using nature as inspiration all term and last week looked closely at the colours and patterns in pebbles.
Inspired by the work of Andy Goldsworthy and land art the learners painted pebble colours onto paper and then cut out lots of organic pebble shapes. These were then stuck onto a large canvas. It's made a fantastic piece of art for the centre.
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Are you thinking about starting a GCSE, Functional Skills in English, maths or a recognised digital skills qualification? Adult Learning will assess your current level of knowledge to make sure you start to learn at the correct level.
The assessments are FREE and will put you on the right path.
We can also signpost you to other short courses or one to ones to fill any gaps you may have prior to starting your course.
Our centres are ready to take initial assessment bookings.
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We are excited to let you know that the new 25/26 Cumbria Adult Learning brochure will be being delivered to all post codes in Cumbria from the 4th of August 2025. |
Have a great summer and we hope to see you soon!
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