The new Calderdale Adult Learning (CAL) prospectus is landing on the doorsteps of every household in Calderdale, with a new curriculum full of exciting, affordable courses to inspire and help people towards the jobs and lives they want.
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, CAL has worked hard to introduce an innovative mix of COVID-safe learning methods. Whilst socially distanced face-to-face lessons are now available at CAL’s Heath Campus, many courses are available to access from learners’ own homes with CAL successfully using Google Classroom software to bring lessons to learners.
The new prospectus includes a rich range of interesting courses, many discounted by 50% or free. CAL want to help everyone in the borough access the learning they need to enrich their lives and improve job prospects. There’s a course for everyone, from developing an interest, improving maths, English and job search skills, to professional training for the workplace.
CAL’s Community and Family Learning has a vibrant range of sociable, welcoming classes, helping people to better wellbeing with opportunities to meet others. In addition, Skills for Adults with Learning Disabilities offers learning opportunities in everything from digital employability, photography and preparation for volunteering, to work improving confidence and skills.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Strategy, Cllr Jane Scullion, said:
“The last year has been challenging for everyone and our adult learners have shown such resilience and an impressive commitment to their learning journey. As we approach the registration period for 2021/22 courses, we’re looking forward to welcoming even more learners to CAL and have a range of courses and different learning options to suit everyone.
“As well as face-to-face courses, we’re pleased to also be able to include online learning in this year’s prospectus, to ensure that everyone can access the learning they want in a way that’s right for them.
“Many of us have reassessed our priorities over the past 12 months and I’d encourage anyone looking to develop their skills or look for a new challenge to browse the courses on offer. Many are free or discounted and our experienced tutors are ready to welcome you and support you to reach your goals.”
CAL continues to receive amazing feedback about its courses. Existing learner Bex, said:
“I’m on an exciting journey. I was born and diagnosed with cerebral palsy. The CAL courses at Heath are a massive part of the network which allows me to achieve.”
Retired learner, Katherine has been learning Italian for three years at CAL and is now at advanced level. She said:
“It’s a great place to make new friends, have a brilliant learning experience and feel welcomed. I’m glad to be able to keep learning the language I love.”
Learners have also welcomed the opportunities to access courses in a number of different ways and full support is offered for those unsure about online options.
Marcus Gregg, CAL Maths Tutor, says of the online learning:
“Last year’s feedback from learners has been really positive. Full [free] training is given at the start of each course and you don’t need IT skills to use it.”
To find out more about Calderdale Adult Learning, or to view the brochure online, visit: https://www.calderdale.gov.uk/v2/residents/education-and-learning/adult-learning