81% of adult learners progress as Wirral’s Lifelong Learning service delivers a standout year
With more than eight in 10 adult learners going on to further training, volunteering or employment, Wirral’s Lifelong Learning Service is supporting local residents to reach their full potential.
A report looking back at the 2024/25 academic year was presented to the March meeting of Wirral Council’s Children, Young People and Education Committee.
Councillors heard how thousands of adults have taken part in courses and workshops covering English and maths to ‘Family Learning’ which gives parents and carers the skills to support their children's education and personal development.
Wirral Council runs the Lifelong Learning Service with £1.2m of funding from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, to help keep courses free or low‑cost for residents to allow people to learn new skills close to home, without financial barriers.
Each week, adults join courses in community centres, Family Hubs, libraries and school halls. Learners take part for many reasons; to build job skills, support their children, gain confidence or feel more connected. The report notes that the service actively engages residents aged 19+ who are furthest from the labour market.
The report shows that
- 1,818 adults took part in 3,534 courses and workshops, covering everything from English and maths to community‑based learning.
- Many learners came from areas facing the biggest challenges, with 68% living in Wirral’s most deprived wards.
- Almost all learners finished their courses, with 92.7% completing to the end and 96% fully achieving.
- 81% of people then went on to something new, progressing into further learning, volunteering or employment, showing how these opportunities help residents move forward in practical and positive ways.
Some parts of the programme grew significantly.
- Family Learning saw 357 enrolments, reflecting a 144% rise from the previous year as more families became involved through new links with local schools.
- ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) continued to support residents who are new to English, with 995 enrolments and an achievement rate of 87%.
The service also maintained its Good Ofsted rating, giving residents confidence that courses remain high‑quality, supportive and well‑run.
Cllr Stephen Bennett, Chair of the Children, Young People and Education Committee, said:
This has been an exceptional year for learning in Wirral. Every number in this report represents someone taking a positive step forward, whether that’s building confidence, learning a new skill or feeling more connected to their community.
As we look to the future, we want to keep this momentum going. We’re aiming to reach even more people next year, especially through expanding our community and family learning offer. We also want to make it easier for residents who may not yet see themselves as learners to take that first step. Lifelong Learning is a real success story for Wirral, and we’re committed to helping it grow.
The report confirms that the council’s plan for the next academic year remains based around four key pillars: wellbeing and independence, community and family progression, English, maths, and ESOL. Community and family learning is expected to expand further next year. The service is also preparing for new national inspection guidance, with full staff training planned for early 2026.
