Community Learning and Development (CLD) supports primarily disadvantaged or vulnerable groups and individuals of all ages to engage in learning, with a focus on bringing about change in their lives and communities. CLD activity has a strong focus on early intervention, prevention and tackling inequalities. It plays a significant role in raising attainment for all and supporting community empowerment, among other key agendas.

Education Scotland supports community learning and development (CLD) practitioners and partnerships at local, regional and national levels through dialogue, advice, guidance, and professional learning.

The Scottish Government has lead responsibility for national CLD policies including youth work, adult learning, English for speakers of other languages, adult literacies and community development. The Education Scotland CLD team works closely with Scottish Government policy colleagues to help to embed policy into practice.

Key resources

Find our CLD resources.

Key documents

Key documents related to CLD can be found on our About CLD page.