3C: How is success in meeting the needs and interests of learners recognised?

There is a wide range of provision. All courses are part-time, with day, evening and Saturday classes available. A two-week summer programme of courses is also provided. There is a literacy with computers course for those learners already on a literacy course... New groups are being established at venues in the community. The authority also supports a course programme for travellers.

The ESOL programme offers a good range of courses at different levels and times to suit learners’ needs…Most courses take place at the centre two or three times a week for 12 weeks…All the courses are cross-referenced to the national ESOL curriculum and learners have the opportunity in the summer term to work towards oral and written ESOL qualifications…Learners are encouraged to progress to higher level language courses and on to other courses in the centre.

A home tuition scheme for Asian women who cannot attend classes in learning centres has been in operation since April 2000.

The [local education authority] is managing a project involving a number of other countries to encourage non-traditional approaches to engaging hard-to-reach learners. Somali learners from Denmark are visiting ESOL classes in Bristol to share their experiences of living and learning in a different culture.

A number of courses have been set up following requests from local minority ethnic communities. These include classes for Somali and Pakistani women and Asian elders.

ESOL classes are available at 21 sites, including schools, community centres and health centres. Many ESOL courses are vocational, such as sewing and IT, using skills as the basis for learning….Provision ranges from Pre-entry to Level 2.

The provision of foundation courses is particularly responsive to learners’ needs both in timing and in content. Many courses are developed following discussions with partner organisations. Courses are well publicised. Learners’ achievements are celebrated through events such as presentation evenings.

Outstanding partnership working has significantly increased the range of provision offered. Many groups that are often excluded from adult learning are provided with good opportunities to attend programmes. [The service] is very successful in working with an extensive range of local, regional and national organisations to identify the council’s priorities for adult and community learning and to set up new provision accordingly.