Dynamic labour market spurs innovation in adult education

Dynamic labour market spurs innovation in Calderdale College’s adult education approach

A dynamic labour market is leading to significant transformations in adult learning at Calderdale College, thanks to an innovative ‘pick ‘n’ mix’ education model introduced by the College’s Community Learning Manager, Naseem Aqeel.

Naseem’s approach, reminiscent of nostalgic sweet shop counters, allows adult learners to personalise their education pathways to suit their individual career ambitions and interests. This bespoke selection process aims to cater to the unique backgrounds, challenges, and ambitions of adult learners that traditional education models often overlook.

For example, in response to upcoming government policy changes, specifically the extension of free childcare hours from September 2024, the college is tailoring its curriculum to prepare its learners for the increased opportunities this shift will present. These policy changes are expected to create increased demand for skilled workers and introduce more individuals into the workforce, particularly those who were previously engaged in childcare responsibilities.

Our 'pick ‘n’ mix' approach is a team effort, with my colleagues, our fabulous learners, and the wider Calderdale community all playing a part. Together, we're making adult education fit the needs of real people for real jobs.

Naseem Aqeel, Community Learning Manager, Calderdale College

Naseem said: “Our ‘pick ‘n’ mix’ approach is a team effort, with my colleagues, our fabulous learners, and the wider Calderdale community all playing a part. Together, we’re making adult education fit the needs of real people for real jobs, right here in Calderdale.”

To keep its curriculum relevant and responsive to changes, Calderdale College has fostered partnerships with local key employers, including the NHS and Bluebird Care. Their insights into the dynamic nature of the labour market have been invaluable in aligning the education provided with the needs and trends of the job market.

The college’s collaboration with Gateway Qualifications has further enriched this approach, creating a flexible programme blueprint that evolves in tandem with market needs. This flexibility is paramount in areas such as health and social care, childcare, IT/digital, fashion, textiles, and creative industries, where skill gaps have been exacerbated by the impacts of Brexit and the Covid pandemic.

Initially starting as a pilot with 15 students post-Covid in 2021, the ‘pick ‘n’ mix’ approach has seen substantial growth, engaging over 900 learners in just two years. Ofsted has previously recognised this innovative approach, awarding Calderdale College an ‘Outstanding’ rating in Adult Education. The effectiveness of the college’s approach has been backed by the learners themselves, who serve as robust advocates for the programme.

Looking to the future, Calderdale College remains committed to refining and expanding the ‘pick ‘n’ mix’ model. The college believes in the potential of this approach to make adult education more accessible, engaging, and rewarding for learners from all walks of life.

Naseem said: “The success of our model is not the end of the journey. We’re always adapting, engaging with local employers, and refining our approach to make sure our learners are best prepared for what’s next. In a rapidly changing world, we’re proving that adult education can be flexible, responsive, and genuinely make a difference in people’s lives.”

To start building your own pick n mix model, contact our Business Development team. The team are extremely skilled in curriculum planning and helping Centres overcome any obstacles you or your learners may be facing.