Unlocking Education: Cornwall Council’s Bold New Role in Adult Learning

As of the 2025/26 academic year, Cornwall Council will take a giant leap in shaping its educational landscape. Thanks to a groundbreaking set of regulations, the local authority is set to gain control over adult education functions, a move expected to bring transformative changes to how education is tailored and delivered in the region.

What’s Changing?

The Cornwall Council (Adult Education Functions) Regulations 2025 marks a pivotal shift, transferring powers from the Secretary of State for Education directly to Cornwall Council. This means that Cornwall will now have the authority to manage the Adult Skills Fund (ASF), allowing them to design and implement education strategies that align with local needs.

Why This Matters

This transfer of powers is part of a broader devolution initiative aimed at giving local areas more control. Cornwall will join regions like the East Midlands and York and North Yorkshire, which are also set to gain similar powers. The goal? To ensure that adult education is more responsive to the unique economic and social priorities of these areas.

What Cornwall Gains

With these new responsibilities, Cornwall can:

• Identify local educational needs and procure the right providers.
• Set funding rates and manage financial systems to support educational initiatives.
• Prioritize groups that need the most support, such as the unemployed or those on low wages.

The ASF: A New Chapter in Education Funding

Replacing the Adult Education Budget, the ASF aims to equip adults in England with skills that lead to meaningful employment or further learning. This includes funding for English, maths, and essential digital skills, as well as support for adults facing learning barriers.

The Road Ahead

To ensure a smooth transition, the Department for Education (DfE) has set readiness criteria. Cornwall demonstrated its capability by presenting a Strategic Skills Plan, showcasing how it plans to address local needs, from an ageing population to priority sectors like hospitality and agriculture.

A Collaborative Effort

While Cornwall will primarily manage these functions, certain powers will still be exercised alongside the Secretary of State. The collaboration ensures that the region benefits from both local insight and national oversight.

Looking Forward

This move not only empowers Cornwall but also sets a precedent for local governance in education. With more tailored approaches to adult education, Cornwall is poised to enhance the skills and prospects of its residents, driving economic and social well-being.

Stay tuned as Cornwall embarks on this exciting educational journey, paving the way for a more localized and impactful approach to adult learning.