This project studied the impact of learning on the wider community, map non-traditional learner journeys to inform future provision, assess learners’ support and skills needs, and highlight models of good practice.

Background

Over the past decade several projects have provided learning opportunities to adults living in areas of social housing and deprivation in Hastings. The first was the Horizons Community Learning Project (winner of a Queen’s innovation award for partnership work). This involved local people through its Learning Forum, which later evolved into the Horizons Community Learning Organisation (HCLO).

A further partnership with residents’ associations and housing associations led to the first successful Adult and Community Learning Project in the South East and to an extension of the project. The Workers Education Association also works with Horizons on course development and delivery.

Project Outline

Anecdotal evidence suggests that these projects, which attract growing numbers of learners to an expanding programme of courses, raise aspirations and impact on the wider community. But, to ensure provision can be sustained, this success needs to be measured. This project, a partnership between HCLO and the University of Sussex’s Centre for Continuing Education and supported by £21,604 BSCKE funding, studied the impact of learning on the wider community, map non-traditional learner journeys to inform future provision, assess learners’ support and skills needs, and highlight models of good practice.