Lewisham Council's Adult Learning Service achieves international accreditation
Lewisham Council is pleased to announce its Adult Learning Service has got the international tick of approval after being accredited with the Matrix Standard; the international quality standard for organisations that deliver information, advice and/or guidance (IAG). Adult Learning Lewisham has maintained accreditation against the Matrix Standard since 2016 continuing to provide a high-quality, outcome focused IAG experience for its learners.
Since the last assessment in 2019 Adult Learning Lewisham has not only sustained its well established IAG provision, but it has also invested in new services, including specialist careers advice support as part of its wider inclusion and equity approach. The service provides an information, advice and guidance service that adapts and evolves to meet the changing economic and social needs of the borough and its communities.
Over 500 learners and residents have benefitted from the new IAG service and have received one to one support from the newly appointed Careers IAG Officer in 2022. The role was created in 2022 to support learners and residents into education and employment.
Learners value the new IAG service. One service user said:
“The careers adviser support has made such a difference to my wellbeing, during a period where I have faced redundancy. She provided positivity and ideas that have kept me holding on to my self-worth and confidence. She has been like a wonderful mentor to me’.
Commenting on the award, Cllr James J Walsh, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said: “Adult Learning Lewisham’s staff consistently deliver a transformative education to learners studying with us. Achieving this accreditation demonstrates again the high-quality education and student experience that typifies ALLs work. Each and every staff member has my thanks for not only their hard work in securing this reaccreditation, but for their passion for delivering a great education too.
“Good information, advice and guidance is crucial to helping learners navigate their next steps, whether continuing their education or re-entering the world of work. With it, and the solid education provided by ALL, we often see transformational changes not only to our students’ lives, but the positive impact often spreads to family, loved ones and their children’s lives too.
“You’re never too old to get a good education, and for anyone wanting to develop new skills in a supportive and nurturing environment, Adult Learning Lewisham could be a great choice for you.”
Find more information about the Matrix Standard on their website.