The city’s Learning Communities project received the innovation award at the recent Universities Association for Lifelong Learning (UALL) annual conference.

The scheme champions lifelong learning in Wolverhampton, and is a partnership between the University of Wolverhampton, City of Wolverhampton Council, Wolverhampton Learning Platform Partners, Adult Education Wolverhampton and Wolverhampton College.

It has been established to offer a coordinated response to supporting those who live in Wolverhampton’s local communities and those who are socially excluded to access skills and employment services across the City.

Dr Mary Mahoney, Learning Regions Director and Head of Lifelong Learning from the University of Wolverhampton, said:

“We are delighted that Wolverhampton Learning Communities has been recognised in this way. This innovative project aims to support people in the city on their lifelong learning journey by encouraging integration and skills development to enable them to benefit from economic growth in Wolverhampton.”

Meredith Teasdale, Director of Education from City of Wolverhampton Council, said:

“Winning this award recognises the strong partnership working going on in our city and the determination we are showing to raise aspirations, develop a skilled workforce and engage adults in learning to improve health and wellbeing.

“It is vital we improve the city’s learning, apprenticeship and employment offers to young people and adults in the City of Wolverhampton.”

Josie Kelly is CEO, Access to Business, said:

“Wolverhampton Learning Platform partners, made up of Wolverhampton Voluntary Sector organisations, is thrilled to be part of the unique Wolverhampton Learning Communities partnership. We are so excited that Learning Communities were presented with the UALL Innovation Award. This is great recognition for the partnership work which has demonstrated that by working together we have been able to ensure that we are sharing best practice and providing complimentary services to offer local residents a clear pathway to access to all levels of quality learning.”

Learning Communities is part of the Wolverhampton City Learning Region initiative, which aims to bring together a wide range of local partners to put learning at the heart of the City and surrounding areas as vital to economic and social development. 

For further information about the Wolverhampton City Learning Region visit: www.wlv.ac.uk/learningregions