Derby City Council’s Further Education Service is celebrating a positive new inspection report that highlights its inclusive culture, strong leadership, and the outstanding progress made by adult learners across the city.

Inspectors praised the service for its trauma‑informed approach, small class sizes, targeted interventions, and rapid delivery of specialist support, all of which enable learners to thrive, build confidence, and achieve their goals.

Learners studying English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), mathematics, digital skills, and vocational programmes were recognised for making strong progress, developing practical skills, and gaining the confidence needed for their next steps.

The service's supported internship pathway stood out for providing high‑quality, personalised career guidance and building strong partnerships with local employers, with interns praised for displaying independence, resilience, and professional workplace behaviours.

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said: 

This report confirms what our learners and partners already know - that our Further Education Service is a place where adults feel welcome, supported, and inspired.

I’m delighted that inspectors recognised the hard work of our staff, the strength of our leadership, and most importantly, the life-changing progress our learners make every day. We remain committed to building on these strengths and continuing to provide high-quality learning opportunities across Derby.”

Inspectors also commended the service's clear strategic vision, accurate self‑assessment, and decisive leadership, while highlighting a supportive workplace culture that prioritises staff wellbeing, flexible working, and access to specialist support.

The report noted that a small number of areas require focus within the Council's newly expanded high-needs provision, aligning with the service’s own internal evaluations. Plans to address these are already well underway.

For more information on adult learning courses, supported internships, and training opportunities, visit the Derby City Council website.