Isle Of Wight Adult Learning Service celebrated in latest Ofsted inspection

The Isle of Wight Council’s Adult and Community Learning (ACL) service has been praised in a newly published Ofsted inspection, which awarded the service an overall rating of ‘Good’.

The inspection highlighted strong performance across the board, with the quality of education, personal development, leadership and management, and adult learning programmes all rated ‘Good’.

Notably, behaviour and attitudes to learning were judged ‘Outstanding’.

Learners reported enjoying their lessons and valuing the practical benefits of their new knowledge and skills in everyday life.

Inspectors noted that learners with special educational needs or disabilities achieve just as well as their peers, thanks to the high expectations and inclusive support provided by tutors.

Inspectors were particularly impressed by learners’ motivation and resilience. Many who had previously lost confidence in their abilities are now thriving in a supportive and encouraging environment, they said.

Rob Brindley, ACL manager, said:

“We are incredibly proud of this Ofsted report. It reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff and the determination of our learners.

"Our mission is to help people rediscover their confidence and potential, and it’s heartening to see that recognised.

"We’ll continue to build on this success and ensure our programmes remain inclusive, inspiring, and impactful.”

The ACL service offers a wide range of programmes across the Island, including qualifications in English, maths, and digital skills, as well as non-accredited courses in health and well-being, family learning, and employability.

At the time of inspection last month, 66 learners were studying maths, 22 were enrolled in English courses, and eight were developing essential digital skills.

An additional 18 learners were participating in tailored, non-accredited programmes.

Learners praised the nurturing and friendly atmosphere created by staff, which encourages them to take risks, make mistakes, and grow in confidence.

Tutors were commended for their expert planning, clear explanations, and ability to adapt lessons to meet individual needs.

Volunteer learning helpers also play a key role in supporting learners to overcome barriers.

The service’s partnerships with local organisations were highlighted as a strength, enabling learners to progress from foundation-level courses to higher qualifications.

Innovative programmes such as equine therapy and carnival arts are helping to reach learners in disadvantaged communities, building both practical and interpersonal skills.

While the report was overwhelmingly positive, Ofsted recommended a few areas for improvement.

These include increasing the number of learners who complete their programmes, offering a more structured personal development curriculum, and better tracking of learners’ progress after they finish their courses.

Councillor Paul Brading, chairman of the children's services, education and skills committee, said:

"The Adult and Community Learning Service plays an important role in supporting learners across the Island, and this report reflects the commitment of its staff and leadership."

The full inspection report was published today (Tuesday) and is available on the Ofsted website.