Scaling the ALPS: Sharing best practice for adult education in Swansea

Members of the Adult Learning Partnership Swansea (ALPS) recently met at Gower College Swansea’s Llwyn y Bryn Campus for a sharing best practice event.

ALPS, which is funded by Welsh Government, brings together prominent institutions dedicated to adult learning, who strive to provide accessible, high-quality education that aligns with the needs and aspirations of the community.

The event was designed to support all partners with topics such as embedding Welsh language and ethos into the curriculum, as well as using digital tools and technology. Talks and workshops were delivered by the College, Adult Learning Wales and Swansea City Council.

"We are committed to ensuring we can collaboratively offer the best choice and quality learning experiences for adult learners within the community," said Nikki Neale, Director of Quality and Curriculum at Gower College Swansea.

“We have some excellent case studies of learners who have progressed and developed their careers. For example, Walid Musa Albuqai, who was forced to flee his home in Syria with his wife and daughters due to the war.

“Walid came to Swansea with very little English. With the support of Swansea City Council, he started studying English as a Second Language (ESOL) at the College.

“Learning English has helped Walid to secure a job as a bus driver with FirstBus. And in September, he won an award at the the Inspire! Adult Learning Awards!”

This partnership will help to grow and further develop these opportunities for adult learners within Swansea and we are excited to hear even more great success in the near future.