Birmingham Adult Education Service (BAES) is part of Birmingham City Council and is one of the broadest adult learning suppliers nationally. Since August 2019 its funding has come through the West Midlands Combined Authority and learners on some courses also pay fees towards the entire cost of their course. Around 13,000 adults study every year with adult education.

Range of learning occasions provided

BAES is a first steps supplier, mainly delivering qualifications up to level 2 (GCSE equivalent). Many learners attend to obtain abilities and qualifications for work. There is also an important range of non-qualification courses which assist health and well-being. Courses manage during the day, evening and on Saturday. Courses in main abilities  – English maths and IT – are free, as are other qualifications for those on income-related benefits, or those who earn less than £9.00 per hour. English language courses (ESOL) run across Birmingham and are also free. Some learners are mandated to attend by JCP. The diversity of vocational subjects includes IT, and Business, Creative Crafts, Health and Social Care. We also have a programme for learners with special/additional educational wants. BAES embeds enrichment activities and larger abilities into their courses to develop the quality of education that learners receive. For 2020-21, BAES will offer more intensive packages of learning for adults to develop their readiness for employment with English, maths and IT skills, together with specialist ICT or Health and Social Care programmes which involve work-related placements and activities. We purpose to engage with all communities. Our programme of non-qualification courses supply activities that encourage social inclusion and for people to become engaged and active in their local community thereby developing the health and well-being of the city. The approach to studying a foreign language through Brasshouse Languages at the Library of Birmingham involves activities to develop understanding of cultural difference and community cohesion. This provision, with a national reputation, offers courses in 20 different languages. In addition to direct delivery provision, BAES works with partners to engage those who are unlikely to join mainstream courses. For example, we manage Family Learning courses in partnership with local schools and children’s centres, engaging parents and children in learning together.