Adult learners with learning difficulties have been praised at a special presentation event to celebrate their achievements.
Derby’s Mayor, Councillor Robin Wood, was among those in attendance on 28 July to present certificates to 35 learners who had attended courses run by Derby Adult Learning Service (DALS) during the past year.
The event, held at the Council House, acknowledged the dedication of learners who had studied a wide range of courses, from English to Employability skills, many of which led to nationally recognised qualifications.
It comes after a recent OFSTED inspection rated the Council’s Derby Adult Learning Service as ‘Good’ for all services and performance.
Paying tribute to the learners and the tutors who supported them along the way, Councillor Wood said:
Our Adult Education Service has a really positive impact in our communities and it is truly inspiring to hear the journeys our learners have been on. Each of them has taken positive steps to enrich their lives by gaining skills to improve job prospects, support their community and improve their quality of life. It’s wonderful to be able to celebrate their fantastic achievements with their friends and family.
Our DALS staff deserve a special mention for their hard work and dedication to helping adult learners flourish.
Daniel Warren has been a learner with DALS for five years, starting with basic level catering courses. This time he received his City and Guilds Level 1 Extended Certificate in Employability at the event. The course included support with CV writing, help with completing application forms and practising interview skills.
Daniel is one of many learners to benefit from practical work experience with city employers. He said:
Coming to DALS has helped me get good qualifications and I learnt a lot at my work placement at Jury’s Inn. I’ve just had a second interview for a catering job and am going on to do an NVQ 1 in Food Preparation next year.
Alongside his studies, Daniel is a keen athlete and will represent the East Midlands in the Special Olympics National Badminton Competition on 20-21 August at the WJ Sports Centre in Walsall.
Since January this year, students on DALS catering courses have had an opportunity to work in a community café at St Philips Church, Chaddesden every Wednesday during term time to complement their formal learning. This joint venture enables learners to gain practical skills by preparing and serving food in a live catering environment.
Derby City Council is exploring the possibility of opening a social enterprise café at the Council House which could offer further work experience opportunities for adult learners.
DALS runs hundreds of courses in a range of subjects for all adults aged over 19. Courses to support adults with learning difficulties and disabilities are designed to help them to become more independent, develop skills for work and keep themselves healthy and well.
For more information on Derby City Council’s Adult Learning Service, including course details, visit their website