west midlands john kyrle high school adult & community learning centre

John Kyrle High SchoolAdult Learning Centre

Adult and Community Mobile I.T.

Regeneration Through Education

Why did Ross-on-Wye need an Adult Learning Centre?

A Community Development Survey carried out in 2005 highlighted the following areas of concern

1. A lack of I.T. facilities

2. Lack of Basic Skills provision

3. Little evidence of working with the local business sector

4. A lack of skills and qualifications needed in the modern workplace

5. Some areas fall within the national 20% most deprived

Immediate Impact• From the start the centre proved very popular and now

averages over 150 adult learners per week.

• Adult students enjoy the relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

• The latest technology is used in all subject areas.

• 1248 learners in the first 2 years.

• 373 learners have gained qualifications.

• 124 businesses have been assisted.

• Waiting lists created for future courses.

Benefits• A large number of adults have been assisted into employment or

improved their employability.

• Learning cultures have been developed between parents and their children who attend the school.

• School exam results have risen by 10% in the last 2 years amongst the children of parents who have taken part in the centre’s initiatives.

• The equipment purchased with the Market Towns Initiative Grant can be used for the whole community not just those who attend the centre.

• The centre has now become the focus for adult learning in the area with links to over 30 organisations and is used as a base for some of these groups.

Challenges

• Demand for IT courses far out weighed the number of suites available for use.

• No flexibility as existing computers were fixed.

• Engaging parents who’s educational experience had been less than perfect.

• Engaging local employers

The Solution

Market Town Initiative Grant provided 40 laptops computers and a wireless network to extend the

flexibility of the centre.

Engaging parents:

– Parents have been engaged by:

holding regular training sessions for them and their children

expanding the range of courses offered

selecting appropriate venue for initial meetings

Engaging local employers:

Introducing appropriate courses for local industry

local targeted marketing

A benefit to the whole area.

Postcode survey of attendees from South Herefordshire in 2007

John Kyrle High SchoolAdult Learning Centre

Regeneration Through Education

Thank You For Listening