Hundreds benefit from adult learning courses

Harriet Robinson - BBC News, WIltshire
·2 min read
Maria Barandalla-Fernandez wearing a dress and holding a certificate and a bunch of flowers. She is standing in front of a projector with her name on it and the word 'winner'. There is a man in a suit next to her.
Maria Barandalla-Fernandez received the Into Work award at the FACL Awards [Wiltshire Council]

More than 600 people have learnt new skills in the past year, as part of a council's Family and Community Learning courses [FACL].

Wiltshire Council offers supports and development classes for adults for whom formal learning might be a barrier.

Maria Barandalla-Fernandez said the course gave her the skills to help her get a job at a school.

She said: "It has been challenging for me to go back into work trying to balance my family needs, but I am really grateful for receiving the support from FACL."

"All the team from admins to tutors have been very supportive and encouraging in achieving my objective," added Ms Barandalla-Fernandez, who works as a kitchen assistant in a local school.

After four-and-a-half years as a stay-at-home mum she said she lacked confidence in her ability to find work again.

In her new role she is able to use the skills she has gained on her courses while undergoing ongoing training, such as safeguarding.

"I need to rebuild my confidence as I know I am good at many things and hopefully I will get a chance to show it again," added Ms Barandalla-Fernandez.

The FACL courses are aimed at helping people gain new skills, including speaking English, as well as ways to budget, advice for supporting children, ways to boost well-being and preparation for further learning, employment or volunteering.

'Wonderful impact'

Councillor Laura Mayes said the courses "help people gain confidence and realise potential."

"Gaining knowledge and new skills can open doors and opportunities and it can also help with health and wellbeing and confidence," she added.

A recent annual report showed 605 people were signed up to the FACL courses in 2024.

It found a total of 99% of learners "achieved their course learning outcomes and met the success criteria".

And 80% of them went on to further study, volunteering, work "or other positive next steps" with the vast majority feeling more confident and making "positive healthy lifestyle changes".

"This report shows the wonderful impact of FACL for Wiltshire residents and I look forward to hearing more positive stories," added Ms Mayes.

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