Residents in Kendal can now apply for courses designed to build qualifications, improve employment skills, develop hobbies and support health and wellbeing as Cumbria Adult Learning launches its programme for the 2026-27 academic year.
The curriculum is available on the Cumbria Adult Learning website, with brochures also due to be provided at the service’s six main centres, including Kendal, as well as in major libraries and through key partner organisations. An online version will also be available.
Courses range from English and maths to arts and crafts
Qualification courses cover English, maths, English for speakers of other languages (ESOL), digital skills, employability, health and wellbeing and the greener curriculum. They begin at Entry Level and continue through Levels 1 and 2.
People do not need previous qualifications to start. The service also offers arts and crafts, languages, health and wellbeing and other non-qualification courses, described as a supportive way for learners to build skills, improve confidence and try new experiences in their local community.
All skills courses are free. Other courses may be subsidised, subject to terms and conditions, meaning they may be available at a lower cost or at no cost to learners.
Free training also available for Cumbrian businesses
Cumbria Adult Learning is offering employers a new “Skills Bridge” programme. The package provides free, bespoke training for employed staff and people looking for work, with the stated aim of supporting workforce excellence across the county.
Further information about Skills Bridge, the full course programme and local centres is available through the Cumbria Adult Learning website.
Service reports strong learner satisfaction
Cumbria Adult Learning is rated “Good” overall by Ofsted, with two areas graded “Outstanding”, including personal development achieved by learners. The council says 98% of learners are satisfied and 97% say their courses met expectations.
Learners receive help and guidance throughout their course from the service’s staff. 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 the programme would help people develop skills. “Every year, over 6000 learners choose to learn with us. They tell us how our courses have helped them to develop new skills, explore new hobbies, gain qualifications, advance their career, find a new job, build their 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 people considering a new subject to contact the service.
Cumbria Adult Learning is a hosted service provided by Westmorland and Furness Council for the whole of Cumbria. Kendal is one of its six main centres.