People across Croydon are being invited to help shape the future of adult learning in the borough.
Croydon Council has launched a public consultation on proposed changes to how adult learning is delivered. The Council wants to hear from learners, employers, community organisations and staff to help design a service that gives people access to the skills and training they need.
The consultation focuses on a proposal to have specialist training and education providers deliver learning on the Council’s behalf. The Council would retain strategic oversight and accountability. It wants staff, learners and residents to help shape the future service and is particularly keen to hear from current and former learners about the courses they would like to see, where learning should take place, and what support would help them succeed.
Croydon Adult Learning and Training (CALAT) has helped thousands of people gain qualifications, improve their English and maths, learn new skills, build confidence and move into work.
However, an independent review found that CALAT faces a number of challenges, including; rising costs, lower achievement rates than the London average and a need to better match courses to local jobs and skills needs.
Funding for adult education would continue through the Greater London Authority’s Adult Skills Fund. The new model could help provide more vocational qualifications, clearer routes into work, and courses that better reflect the needs of local employers and growing industries.
The proposed service would continue to support residents who are furthest from education and employment, as well as providing accessible and inclusive learning opportunities, and core courses such as English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), English, maths, digital skills and employability training.
“CALAT has supported thousands of residents over the years, and I want that important work to continue. However, an independent review has identified significant challenges, including a forecast overspend of £500,000 this year and achievement and progression rates below the London average.
“We have to make changes to secure this service for the future. It is not about cutting adult learning funding, it is about making the service sustainable and improving outcomes for residents.
“We will listen carefully to staff, learners and residents through the consultation before deciding the way forward. Please get involved and have your say.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
Employers, businesses and community organisations are also encouraged to share their views on local skills needs and the opportunities they see for adult learning in Croydon.
The consultation runs until Tuesday 24 November 2026.
Take part through the online survey or by completing a paper copy, available from CALAT centres across the borough.
All consultation responses will be reviewed and analysed, and a consultation findings report will be produced setting out what we heard and how feedback has been considered in shaping the next steps.
For more information, to request the survey in a different format, or to speak to the team, email CALATconsultation@croydon.gov.uk.
