Adults in Kendal can now apply for free courses running during the 2026–27 academic year, offering opportunities to gain qualifications, build confidence and improve employment prospects.
The programme includes English, maths, digital skills, employability, health and wellbeing, greener-curriculum subjects and English for speakers of other languages. Courses are available through Cumbria Adult Learning’s Kendal centre and other venues across Cumbria.
Learning ranges from Entry Level to Levels 1 and 2. That means the programme is aimed at people starting education, returning to study or developing skills and experience they already have.
What can people study?
Residents can compare available subjects, qualification levels and locations before applying. Alongside the core skills programme, Cumbria Adult Learning offers non-qualification classes in subjects including arts and crafts, languages, health and wellbeing and other areas.
Those classes are designed to give adults the chance to try something new, develop practical skills and build confidence in a supportive local setting. All skills courses are free, although other classes may be subsidised under relevant terms and conditions, meaning some non-qualification sessions could be reduced-price or free.
The service says its courses can help learners gain qualifications, explore hobbies, advance their careers, find work and support their wellbeing.
How to apply in Kendal
The full curriculum is available through the Cumbria Adult Learning website, which will also publish an online version of the programme. Printed brochures are due to be distributed at the organisation’s six main centres, including Kendal, as well as major libraries and key partner organisations.
Applicants can use the programme to compare subjects, levels and venues before submitting an application. Further information about local centres and enrolment is available through Cumbria Adult Learning.
Support for workers and employers
Employers across Cumbria can access the Skills Bridge programme, which provides free, bespoke training for employed staff and people looking for work. The stated aim is to support workforce excellence across the county.
Cumbria Adult Learning is a hosted service provided by Westmorland and Furness Council for the whole of Cumbria, with Kendal among its six main centres. Ofsted rates the service “Good” overall, while learner personal development is one of two areas graded “Outstanding”.
Westmorland and Furness Council reports that 98% of learners are satisfied and 97% say their courses met expectations. Staff provide help and guidance throughout each course.
“My tutor was a really great teacher. I felt fully supported throughout the course. Thank you.”
Councillor Janet Battye, Westmorland and Furness Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said more than 6,000 people choose to learn with the service each year. Emma Hamer, Cumberland Council’s Assistant Director for Education, SEND and Inclusion, said there were “hundreds of classes” led by experienced tutors and encouraged anyone considering a new subject to contact the service.