York Learning rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted

York Learning offers courses and programmes to help residents of all ages learn, explore and achieve and can play a key role in helping people to get into work or expanding their skills while in work.

The inspection, which was carried out in December, rated each of the nine categories assessed as ‘good’, including adult learning programmes, education programmes for young people and provision for learners with high needs.

The inspection report recognised how highly learners and apprentices valued the learning experience and support they received from course tutors, enabling them to grown in confidence.

It also highlighted how tutors appreciate the barriers that many learners and apprentices face in their lives and are proactive in providing support while promoting high expectations.

The inspectors referenced the clear purpose that York Learning’s leaders’ and managers’ have for the courses they offer, providing sessions to improve the lives of residents in York, which are aligned with the council’s wider strategic plan and skills’ needs in the region.

Inspectors also recognised the rigorous oversight that leaders and managers have of the quality of teaching and assessment, including that of subcontractors.

The assessment noted that most learners and apprentices achieve their qualifications on the vast majority of courses, with many processing to the next level of study, further education or employment.

Inspectors did find that learners on a few courses did not achieve, including learners with high needs on functional skills English and maths courses. An action plan has been put in place to provide support to the subcontractor running this course.

It also found that where some learners on English and mathematics courses face significant barriers to learning – such as mental health and well-being issues – leaders and managers have introduced extensive mental health support for these learners, which is having a positive impact.

Cllr Pete Kilbane, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Economy and Culture, with responsibility for skills, said:

“This is great news and I’m delighted that the inspectors have recognised the enthusiasm, dedication and expertise that our tutors and wider York Learning team bring to adult learners across the city each and every day.

“Providing high quality opportunities for all our residents to learn and grow, whatever their age or situation, is a key commitment in our Council Plan. I’m pleased that York Learning is continuing to help us deliver on that pledge and I urge residents to take full advantage of the opportunities available.”

For more information about York Learning and the courses available visit https://yorklearning.org.uk/ or call 01904 554277.

A full copy of the Ofsted report is available at https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/42/55476.