Ofsted praises Blackburn with Darwen Adult Learning Service

Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Adult Learning Service has received a positive Ofsted inspection report, recognising its work helping thousands of local residents gain new skills, improve their wellbeing and find employment.

The service, which supports more than 2,000 learners each year, achieved the Expected Standard in all five areas assessed during an inspection in September.

Inspectors praised the team’s commitment to helping people overcome barriers to education, particularly those facing mental health challenges, disabilities, bereavement or difficulties in traditional learning environments.

Almost 90% of learners go on to further education, volunteering, employment or improved opportunities at work.

Learning opportunities across the borough

The Adult Learning Service offers a wide variety of courses, with almost all available free of charge.

Subjects range from ICT and preparation for careers in hospitality, childcare and schools to therapeutic art, gardening and wellbeing activities.

Classes take place at accessible locations across Blackburn and Darwen, including two dedicated Adult Learning centres, Family Hubs and Blackburn College.

The courses are designed to build confidence, develop practical skills and help residents take their next steps, whether that means returning to education, finding work or improving their everyday lives.

Positive Ofsted inspection results

Under Ofsted’s new inspection framework, the service achieved the Expected Standard in all five areas assessed:

• Curriculum
• Achievement
• Inclusion
• Learners’ wider development
• Leadership

Inspectors highlighted the service’s high expectations, personalised support and strong partnerships with local education providers and Adult Social Care.

The report also recognised the opportunities available to learners, including work placements, workplace visits, volunteering, weekly jobs clubs and help preparing CVs and developing interview skills.

Learners were described as “enthusiastic” and “actively engaged”, with inspectors recognising their ambition and appreciation for the support they receive.

Learning that changes lives

One learner who has experienced the benefits firsthand is Jasmine Alhous, who attends English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes at Bank Top Adult Learning Centre.

“This course has changed such a lot in my life,” she said.

“When I first started a year ago, I couldn’t speak English and now I can help my children with their homework and understand their teachers when they talk to me.”

Jasmine also praised her tutor Karen for her patience and encouragement.

Her experience reflects the wider impact of the service, with learners gaining confidence and independence alongside new qualifications and practical skills.

Council welcomes inspection outcome

Councillor Quesir Mahmood, Deputy Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council and Executive Member for Growth and Development, welcomed the findings.

“What a fantastic achievement for our Adult Learning Team to receive such a positive outcome following their recent Ofsted inspection,” he said.

“The most important part for me was hearing how the service genuinely helps improve lives, with many learners going on to better themselves, including securing employment.”

He described the service as an example of the council’s commitment to improving residents’ lives and creating better opportunities across the borough.

Council Chief Executive Denise Park also praised the staff and learners involved.

“This team works hard to remove barriers to learning and give people the very best chances to succeed,” she said.

She added that the council remained committed to ensuring residents were not left behind, with adult education playing an important role in supporting people into work, volunteering and further learning.

Find out about Adult Learning courses

Blackburn with Darwen residents interested in developing new skills, improving their confidence or exploring employment opportunities can contact the Adult Learning team to find out about available courses.

Almost all courses are free, with sessions available at venues across the borough.

Contact Blackburn with Darwen Adult Learning:

Telephone: 01254 507720

Email: adultlearning@blackburn.gov.uk

Residents can also visit the Blackburn with Darwen Adult Learning website to explore courses and download the latest programme.

Source: Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, 19 October 2026.