A WIRRAL service that provided adult education, training and community learning courses has received a new rating from Ofsted.

Wirral Lifelong Services was rated ‘Good’ after its latest inspection by Ofsted in June 2024.

The service aims to help learners improve their essential skills, prepare for employment, build confidence and improve their wellbeing.

Cllr Chris Carubia, Vice-Chair of the Children, Young People and Education Committee for Wirral Council, said: “The Lifelong Learning Service helps adults with few, low or no qualifications get the skills they need for a job, to volunteer, or to get ready for work.

“Most of our learners have not participated in education for a considerable time. They may lack confidence or feel apprehensive about returning to education. We help people to gain skills and believe in their own abilities as they get back into learning.”

The inspection evaluated a range of learning including online courses, classrooms and in community spaces, all of which are designed to meet the needs of residents.

The report stated that “learners develop their confidence, particularly as tutors tailor course content to meet their needs and interests” and that “leaders provide courses that directly meet the needs of learners in their community”.

Cllr Carubia said: “It’s so gratifying to see Ofsted recognise the service that we are providing to adult learners who, according to the report, find our courses accessible, highly practical and relevant.”

Many learners are enrolled on community courses, which aim to improve essential skills and wellbeing, prepare for employment and build confidence. The service also offers accredited courses including English, maths, English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) and digital skills.

Recently, some of the service’s ESOL learners were recognised as part of a Celebration Test and Learn project from Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. The project asked learners to submit films, crafts, photography, stories and more on the theme of ‘My Home My Culture’.

The exhibition and results were celebrated at an event at Birkenhead Town Hall last month. Boush Khadir from Sudan, Ozge Coban from Turkey and Maria Cedeno from Chile were awarded top three and presented with prizes by the Mayor Cherry Povall.

If you're interested in enrolling or want to learn more visit: Adult learning in Wirral | wirral.gov.uk. You must be aged 19 or over to enrol.