Kendal residents can now apply for free adult learning courses aimed at improving employment prospects, supporting wellbeing, developing hobbies and helping people gain qualifications during the 2026-27 academic year.
Applications have opened for Cumbria Adult Learning’s latest programme. Courses are available through the service’s Kendal centre and at venues elsewhere across Cumbria, allowing people to compare subjects, levels and locations before applying.
Courses include English, maths and digital skills
The qualification programme covers English, maths, English for speakers of other languages, digital skills, employability, health and wellbeing, and the greener curriculum. Classes are offered from Entry Level through to Levels 1 and 2.
No previous qualifications are needed to start. The programme is designed for people beginning a new subject, returning to education or building on knowledge and experience they already have.
Alongside the qualification courses, Cumbria Adult Learning offers non-qualification classes in subjects including arts and crafts, languages, health and wellbeing and other interests. The service describes these as a supportive way to build skills, increase confidence and try new experiences within the local community.
All skills courses are free. Other classes may be subsidised under relevant terms and conditions, so some could be available at a reduced cost or without charge.
How to find the programme and apply
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.
Residents can use the programme to compare subjects, course levels and venues before submitting an application. Further information about local centres and enrolment is available through Cumbria Adult Learning.
Free training also available for Cumbrian businesses
Employers across Cumbria can also access the new Skills Bridge programme. It provides free, bespoke training for employed staff and people looking for work, with the stated aim of supporting 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.
The service is rated “Good” overall by Ofsted, 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.
Learners receive help and guidance from staff throughout their course. One recent learner said: “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. She said the courses have helped people develop skills, explore hobbies, gain qualifications, advance careers, find jobs, build confidence and support their wellbeing.
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.