Big Changes for Adult Education in York and North Yorkshire: What You Need to Know

The UK government is shaking up how adult education is managed in York and North Yorkshire, granting the local Combined Authority new powers to take control. This shift is set to kick off in the academic year 2025/26, aligning with a broader movement towards local devolution. Here’s a breakdown of what this means for the region and its residents.

What’s Happening?

The Secretary of State for Education is transferring significant adult education functions to the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority. The move stems from a devolution deal made in August 2022, which included similar agreements with the East Midlands and Cornwall. The goal is to give local authorities more control over adult education, allowing them to tailor educational offerings to regional needs.

Key Functions Transferred

The powers being handed over include managing the Adult Skills Fund (ASF), which supports adult learners in gaining skills for employment or further education. The ASF replaced the Adult Education Budget (AEB) in 2024 and covers education from basic skills up to level 3 qualifications (equivalent to A-levels).

York and North Yorkshire will now be responsible for:

• Identifying local educational needs.
• Procuring and funding education providers.
• Setting funding rates and managing finances.
• Encouraging adult participation in education, including employer involvement.

Why Local Control?

The government believes that local authorities are best placed to understand and address the specific educational needs of their communities. By transferring these powers, York and North Yorkshire can more effectively respond to local economic demands, promote skills development, and support their transition to a Carbon Negative economy.

How Was This Decided?

The shift follows extensive consultations, including a public survey and stakeholder events. The majority of responses were in favor of the devolution of adult education functions, emphasizing local support for the change.

What’s Next?

York and North Yorkshire will start managing these functions from August 2025. They have already demonstrated their readiness by submitting a Strategic Skills Plan and meeting criteria set by the Department for Education (DfE). This ensures they are equipped to handle the responsibilities and meet the statutory objectives of improving local education and economic wellbeing.

Impact on the Public

The transfer of powers is expected to enhance the delivery of adult education, making it more relevant to local needs. It will not impose any new regulatory burdens on businesses, charities, or voluntary organizations, as it primarily affects public sector administration.

Monitoring and Accountability

The DfE will work closely with York and North Yorkshire to oversee the transition and ensure objectives are met. Annual Assurance Reports will track progress and help in evaluating the success of the devolution.

This significant change marks a step towards more localized control over adult education, aiming to empower regions to better serve their communities and drive local economic growth.