Looking to the future of adult learning in Croydon

Croydon is growing and changing, and so are the skills residents need to succeed. New industries, changing employer demands and advances in technology mean adult learning must continue to evolve.

As part of our work to support the Council's priorities and long-term financial sustainability, we are reviewing the future of Croydon Adult Learning and Training (CALAT) to ensure it continues to deliver the greatest benefit for residents and communities.

The need for change

For many years, CALAT has helped thousands of residents improve their English, gain qualifications, develop skills and build confidence. We are proud of that legacy and remain committed to ensuring adult learning continues to support residents throughout their lives.

However, resident and employer needs have changed. There is growing demand for digital, technical and employability skills, alongside more flexible learning opportunities that lead directly to employment, career progression or further study.

We are exploring options for a financially sustainable adult learning service that responds to these changing needs and helps more residents achieve positive outcomes. Our aim is to strengthen opportunities for residents and businesses by providing greater choice, flexible ways to learn, and stronger links to employers and training partners.

We remain committed to supporting those who need us most, including people learning English, adults with additional learning needs, parents returning to work, people looking to retrain, and those who have been out of employment for some time.

Next steps

We are now working with independent agency Mime, to carry out a review of our CALAT service and to provide recommendations on options for the future of the service.

Once complete, Mime will provide an evidence-based assessment of the service, and all options, including risks and mitigations, for a future model.

The options and recommendations for a future model will be presented to Cabinet in October who will make a decision on the next steps for the future model of the service.

During October 2026, we will be relocating the majority of CALAT classes from Croydon Clocktower to Stand House in Thornton Heath. A smaller teaching footprint will be retained in central Croydon for courses that require a central location and to maintain accessibility for learners.

We will be contacting all learners who are due to attend classes at Croydon Clocktower with location details for classes over the coming weeks. We will also review course timetables to allow sufficient time to travel between venues where required.