Council told it must improve adult learning

The findings were revealed in Ofsted’s inspection of the service which has been downgraded from an overall standard of good to requiring improvements in all areas.

Andrea Machell, lead inspector, found that tutors’ planning of individual targets is insufficient to enable all learners to realise their full potential.

“Learners’ progression to further study or employment is too low.

“Managers’ evaluation of the quality of teaching and learning is not fully accurate, which slows improvements in tutors’ practice.”

Calderdale Council provides learning for around 3,700 adults per year. Adult learning is provided through Calderdale Local Education Authority and delivered through the adult and community learning service, Calderdale Adult Learning (CAL).

CAL provides a range of courses for adults and family learning in partnership with over 30 schools.

Coun Megan Swift, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People’s Services, said: “Our highest priority is for our learners to achieve their best, and we are totally committed to supporting them to do this.

“We are pleased that Ofsted recognised our good family learning; high GCSE grades in English and maths; commitment to engaging with vulnerable and disadvantaged people; our inclusive and harmonious culture where learners participate well and enjoy learning; and the way we support people to develop their self-confidence.

“However, we recognise that there are areas we need to work on. We were aware of these and were already working hard to address them before Ofsted’s inspection. All of our learners can be assured that we will continue to do everything we can to make improvements.”