A LOCAL council is providing a good service to the eduction of adult learners and apprentices in Gateshead according to the latest Ofsted report.

The report detailed that the learners benefit from skills tutors who are committed to improving the lives of the people of Gateshead.

The inspection across Gateshead Council’s LearningSkills service took place in January and looked at adult education including provision for people with learning difficulties and disabilities. The report also covered study programmes, traineeships and apprenticeships for young people.

The report highlighted that:

Staff focus well on preparing learners and apprentices for life and work in modern Britain.

Learners flourish in the safe and welcoming learning environments that staff create.

Learners gain a range of new and enhanced knowledge and skills such as communication and digital skills, which are useful to them in their everyday life, in their search for employment and at work.

Younger learners develop very good practical construction skills which are well matched to local job opportunities.

Learners and apprentices benefit from the support and care that they receive from their tutors and support workers.

Staff work well with employers if apprentices experience difficulties that impact on their work.

Councillor Malcolm Brain, Cabinet Member for Economy, said: "I am delighted that Ofsted has recognised that the managers and staff of our LearningSkills service share the vision of the Council to ensure that local communities thrive and that they are committed to improving the lives of the people of Gateshead.”

Caroline O'Neill, Strategic Director for Children, Adults and Families, said: "The report has highlighted only four areas where improvement is needed. We know what needs to improve and already have plans in place to ensure we continue to build on our successes to support learners at whatever stage of life they are at."