Ofsted rate our Adult Education Service as Good
The report praises the service, saying that ‘learners thrive in a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment', where they ‘quickly develop new skills and apply them in their daily lives’.
Inspectors acknowledged that senior leaders have taken ‘effective action to make sure the quality of education remains good and is ‘aligned with the strategic objectives of the local authority; to widen participation and increase employability skills’.
Since the previous inspection in 2017, the service has invested in new services, including specialist careers advice support as part of its wider inclusion and equity approach. Learners can also access wide ranging information, advice, and guidance to ensure they are on the right course and are aware of the next steps available to them to progress their learning.
Mayor of Lewisham Brenda Dacres said:
“It’s fantastic news that our Adult Education Service has maintained a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted. They continue to make improvements and deliver high quality courses that help local people develop the skills they need to improve their job prospects and wellbeing.”
Councillor Kim Powell, Cabinet Member for Businesses, Jobs, and Skills said:
“I’m delighted that Ofsted has once again recognised our adult education service as a good provider. I am immensely proud of staff and learners; it is a great achievement.
“The benefits and opportunities that the service provides for our residents are far reaching. Many learners gain qualifications or progress onto higher levels courses, but equally as important, learners grow in confidence, improve their health and wellbeing, make new friends and gain skills for employment and independent living.
“I encourage anyone who wants to discover a new interest, improve their English or maths, or meet like-minded people to see what Lewisham's adult community learning service has to offer.”
Inspectors commented that ‘most learners receive effective careers advice and guidance about the next steps available to them’ and that trained career advisers also ‘arrange volunteering and work experience, including for learners who have learning difficulties’.
They also highlighted that ‘leaders and governors have very clear oversight of the quality of the provision and monitor teaching carefully and frequently to make sure it continues to improve'.
‘They carefully identify the training needs of staff and offer a range of relevant continuous professional development. Tutors are skilled and experienced and have in-depth knowledge of the subjects they teach'.