Adult courses open new routes to work for Blackburn residents

News Desk 2026-10-19 09:38 3 min read

Modern empty classroom featuring wooden tables, chairs, and a large digital presentation screen.

Residents who have found traditional education difficult are being supported to build skills, improve their wellbeing and move towards work, volunteering or further study through Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Adult Learning Service. Ofsted rated the service at the Expected Standard in all five areas it assessed, following an inspection in September.

The assessment covered curriculum, achievement, inclusion, learners’ wider development and leadership. Under Ofsted’s new framework, the result is equivalent to “Good plus” under its previous system.

Courses support learners facing barriers

The service works with people experiencing mental health challenges, learning difficulties or bereavement, as well as those who may have struggled in a conventional classroom. Its courses range from ICT and introductions to hospitality, childcare and schools to therapeutic art and gardening.

Almost all courses are free. The council says almost 90% of learners progress into further learning, volunteering, employment or better opportunities at work. More than 2,000 people take part each year across the borough.

Adult courses open new routes to work for Blackburn residents

Ofsted’s report praised the service for setting high expectations and tailoring support to help learners overcome barriers. It also noted support for learners with disabilities and health conditions to gain sustained employment and continue progressing.

Learners describe changes in daily life

The report said learners were “enthusiastic” and “actively engaged” and spoke passionately about the effects of their courses. It highlighted the value they placed on tutors and learning support workers, and their ambition for the future.

Jasmine Alhous, who attends English for Speakers of Other Languages classes at Bank Top Adult Learning Centre, said she had been unable to speak English when she started a year earlier. She can now help her children with homework and understand their teachers, and thanked her tutor Karen for her patience and support.

The service works with Adult Social Care and local education providers to shape courses around skills needs in Blackburn with Darwen and the wider region. Learners can also access work placements, workplace visits and volunteering opportunities. Weekly jobs clubs offer CV and interview support.

Classes run at centres across the borough

Sessions are held at two dedicated Adult Learning centres, the council’s Family Hubs and Blackburn College. Ofsted also found that safeguarding standards were met, helping learners feel safe.

The council says the inspection reflects the team’s work to remove barriers and help residents move into employment and volunteering. The assessment follows a Good rating for the council’s Adult Social Care services after a Care Quality Commission inspection in July 2025, and a Good Ofsted rating for Children’s Services in March 2025.

Residents can find course information and the latest programme through Blackburn with Darwen Adult Learning. The team can also be contacted at adultlearning@blackburn.gov.uk or on 01254 507720.

Source: Blackburn with Darwen Council News

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