THE first Ofsted inspection of the recently merged Skills and Learning: Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole rated the popular service good.

The three local authorities merged their adult learning services, which last year recorded 10,000 enrolments.

The three areas judged: outcomes for learners; quality of teaching, learning and assessment and effectiveness of leadership and management were all rated good.

Highlights of the report included the focus on recruiting unemployed learners or those with multiple barriers to learning onto courses. Staff provided a high level of care and support, the curriculum was well planned to meet local employment needs, a large majority progressed onto further courses, employment or voluntary work and the authorities worked well together.

It was not an outstanding service because not enough learners achieved qualifications on courses that were nationally recognised, not all tutors ensured they develop English and maths skills in lessons and tutors in different subjects did not always share good practice.

Cllr Xena Dion, cabinet portfolio holder for economy, culture and leisure, Borough of Poole, said: “The new team has worked extremely hard to ensure a smooth transition to the new service. It is great to see this work rewarded and shows how effective the merger has been. To receive such a positive Ofsted report is a credit to everyone involved in the service.”

Cllr Robert Gould, leader of Dorset County Council, said: “This report is testament to the hard work of all involved in adult education in Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole, and our desire to provide the best possible learning and outcomes for learners.

“Adult education has such an important role to play in improving skill levels and boosting confidence, so It’s particularly pleasing to see that a large majority of learners’ progress on to further courses, employment or volunteering.”

Deputy leader of Bournemouth Borough Council, Cllr Nicola Greene, cabinet member for education, said: “To achieve such a positive Ofsted report is testament to the great deal of hard work by all those involved in the serviceIn changing times we demonstrate that this service still has great relevance to residents across the county, helping them into employment and further opportunities.”