Learn Ealing, Ealing Council’s adult and community learning service, has retained its overall ‘good’ rating in a recent Ofsted inspection – with some outstanding areas.

Last month, inspectors assessed the quality of education for adult learners in the borough by observing classes, conducting surveys, and speaking to tutors, learners, partners, and employers.

Out of the 4 key inspection areas, Learn Ealing was rated ‘outstanding’ in 2, ‘behaviour and attitudes’, and ‘personal development.’ That means Learn Ealing is the best rated adult and community learning provider in west London.

‘Good’ ratings were received for ‘leadership and management’ and ‘quality of education’.

Inspectors praised management for providing clear training options which align the curriculum with the council’s priorities. Among other things, they also commended the quality of education delivered, and the valuable careers information and guidance offered. View a list of all the key findings at the end of this article.

The last inspection, in 2020, graded all areas as ‘good’. This year’s achievement marks a significant improvement and has been enabled by the council’s decision to create a new regeneration, economy, and skills department, which includes Learn Ealing.

‘Committed to high-quality education’

Ealing Council leader, Councillor Peter Mason said: “This Ofsted rating reflects our commitment to providing a high-quality education service for local people. Every day, our brilliant Learn Ealing team is helping local people get the skills they need to find good and well-paid jobs. Their consistent dedication to improving residents’ lives is just one of the factors that has led to this continuation of their ‘good’ Ofsted rating.”

Councillor Kamaljit Nagpal, the council’s cabinet member for decent living incomes added: “Although this impressive rating could not have been achieved without the hard work and dedication of our Learn Ealing team, the adult learners have also played a vital role. It’s great to hear that the inspectors found that learners turn up to classes feeling empowered and ready to learn, with a very positive attitude towards their studies. Learn Ealing’s success is a testament to the dedication and hard work of its leaders, teachers, and learners.”  

Start your learning journey

Learn Ealing offers training at more than 25 venues across the borough, including schools, children’s centres, and libraries. This allows the council to prioritise its services towards more disadvantaged adults, who can take part in courses close to their homes, which reflects the commitments set out in the council’s jobs and skills strategy.

Why not explore the selection of courses Learn Ealing has designed for adult learners? To view the latest prospectus, go to the Learn Ealing website or contact info@learnealing.co.uk for more information.

If you need help with finding the next step in your career, visit the West London Skills and Work Finder website for local training courses, careers events, and other available support to get into work.

Key findings from Ofsted

The inspector’s report included the following statements:

• leaders work effectively with employers to plan their curriculum offer. They have a clear purpose for the training they provide, aligning the curriculum with council priorities such as creating good jobs, tackling the climate crisis, and fighting inequality
• teachers are well-qualified and enthusiastic about their subjects, using their knowledge to deliver interesting and effective lessons
• learners develop new knowledge and skills quickly, make new friends, and become more confident. Most learners, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), make good progress and successfully complete their courses
• learners have a very positive attitude towards their studies, with high attendance and punctuality. They arrive ready to learn and participate eagerly in lessons
• learners benefit from a range of effective personal development opportunities, including money management skills and mental health first aid. They quickly gain confidence and become ambitious to improve their lives and those of their families
• leaders and tutors provide high-quality careers information and guidance, helping learners prepare CVs and job applications effectively