Brent Council’s provision for adult education in the borough is improving, according to government inspectors.

Brent Adult and Community Education Service (BACES) was judged to be making “reasonable progress” overall and staff were praised by the education watchdog, following its inspection in April, for working hard to “achieve a common sense of responsibility and purpose towards improvement.”

Since the service was last inspected in May 2009, it has increased the percentage of students completing their courses by introducing a 70 per cent minimum attendance requirement. Ofsted said that “whilst it is too early to judge the overall success of these improvement measures, in-year data for the first two months show that the decline in retention has been effectively halted.”

All teachers are now observed at least once each academic year and opportunities for professional development have been increased. Inspectors noted that “a good system of tutor mentoring is in place to ensure support is effective” and they praised the work that has been done for students who have disabilities and learning difficulties (DLD), including the development of an online learning environment.

Sue Hasty, Head of Service for BACES, said, “This is a really positive outcome for learners in Brent and we look forward to making further significant strides in improving the learning experience and helping all members of the community to achieve their goals.”

The “sound action plan”, which has been put in place by BACES for recognising and recording learners’ progress and achievement on non-accredited courses was also praised, as was the promotion of equality and diversity in teaching sessions which has improved the learning experience for students as illustrated by the introduction of a learner-centred newsletter.

A copy of the full inspection report and information about courses is available by clicking on www.brent.gov.uk/baces