ALI Inspection

Stockton's adult learners have plenty to smile about after inspectors rated their Council's adult education service the best they have ever seen.

In their report published 11 June 2004, a team from the Adult Learning Inspectorate says that every aspect of the service is either good or outstanding. The inspectors spent a week last month scrutinising the service, which offers over 800 different courses to some 7,500 learners each year. They found it to be in outstanding shape, achieving the highest ranking of all local authority adult education services that they have inspected to date.

The report particularly praises the partnerships formed between the Stockton Council adult education team and a wide range of local organisations and voluntary groups. Councillor Alex Cunningham, Stockton Council's cabinet member for Education, Leisure and Cultural Services said: "Adult education has been a strength in Stockton for many years. This inspection report confirms that the range and quality of its work makes it a national leader in the adult education field.

Stanley Bradford, Stockton Council's Corporate Director of Education, Leisure and Cultural Services said: "The adult education service provides learning opportunities, enjoyment and fulfilment for thousands of adults across the Borough". He went on to say "There are hundreds of staff involved, mostly part-time tutors, who are the unsung heroes of the service and I am delighted that the inspectors have recognised their excellent work and I congratulate everyone involved in the service on this achievement."

A copy of the report is attached. For further information please use the contact details provided.