York and North Yorkshire Take Charge of Adult Education: A New Dawn

In a significant move towards local empowerment, York and North Yorkshire are set to gain control over adult education functions starting from the 2025/26 academic year. This transition, facilitated by new legislation, allows the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority (CA) to manage adult education responsibilities previously held by the Secretary of State for Education. Here's what it means.

What’s Changing?

• Transfer of Powers: The legislation shifts key adult education functions from the central government to the York and North Yorkshire CA. This includes overseeing the Adult Skills Fund (ASF), which supports adult learners in gaining essential skills for employment or further education.

• Local Autonomy: With these powers, York and North Yorkshire will identify local educational needs, select education providers, and set funding rates. This shift aims to tailor adult education more closely to regional economic and social priorities.

Why the Change?

• Devolution Deal: This change follows a devolution agreement made in 2022, part of a broader government strategy to give local areas more control over education. Similar devolution deals are happening with other regions like the East Midlands and Cornwall, with implementation also set for 2025.

• Regional Priorities: By having the authority to manage adult education, York and North Yorkshire can align educational programs with local needs, such as addressing skills gaps and supporting economic growth.

What Does the ASF Cover?

The ASF funds education for adults aged 19 and over, covering everything from basic skills like English and maths to Level 3 qualifications (equivalent to A-levels). It also supports digital skills training and provides assistance for learners facing financial hardships or those with disabilities.

Consultation and Support

Public consultations have shown strong support for these changes, with around 60% of respondents in favor. The Department for Education (DfE) has ensured that York and North Yorkshire are prepared to take on these responsibilities, requiring a Strategic Skills Plan that outlines how they intend to use the ASF to meet both local and national goals.

Impact and Monitoring

While the transfer of powers is primarily administrative, it is expected to enhance the effectiveness of adult education by allowing decisions to be made closer to the communities they affect. The DfE will continue to monitor the implementation, with York and North Yorkshire required to submit annual reports to track progress and outcomes.

Conclusion

This legislative change is a major step in the UK government’s devolution agenda, empowering regions like York and North Yorkshire to shape their educational landscapes. By aligning adult education more closely with local needs, the hope is to drive economic growth and improve social outcomes across the region.