west midlands john kyrle high school adult & community learning centre
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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