Luton Adult Learning has been awarded the second highest rating of Good, following a recent inspection by Ofsted.
The council service performed well across all areas by inspection and improved on its overall 2012 rating of Satisfactory.
Inspectors found that learners who use the service successfully, achieve a range of personal learning objectives, while gaining qualifications. The teachers were praised on the way they help learners to progress to further study, voluntary work and paid employment.
The service fell short of the highest possible grade of Outstanding, with inspectors commenting that some procedures were still in their infancy and more comprehensive feedback needed to be collected from learners.
Other areas were improving the system of observing teachers’ classroom practices and to review individual learning plans to check whether these set challenging targets at extending learners’ knowledge and skills.
Tom Molloy, Adult Learning service manager, said: “I’m very proud of the team for this fantastic achievement which shows just how far we’ve come over the last couple of years.
“We are fully committed to improving learning outcomes for Luton residents and will build on this result to ensure we continue to improve and even go one step better next time.
“Learning a new skill is a fulfilling experience and gives people the chance to discover or develop a new talent. We offer a wide range of courses tailored to individual needs and I hope this result will encourage more people to use our service.”
Councillor Waheed Akbar said: “I would like to congratulate Luton’s adult learning team for the wonderful feedback from Ofsted. The team work so hard to provide a service which caters for everyone and I’m glad this has been given the recognition it deserves.
“I am particularly pleased that the inspectors noted that the service offers courses to some of the more vulnerable people in Luton and is improving their lives through qualifications and job opportunities.”