Community Learning and Development (CLD) can be lifesaving for many children, young people and adults in Scotland

Education Scotland’s HM Inspectorate has published an evaluation of CLD in Scotland. It provides an overview of strengths in the sector and recommendations for local authorities, CLD partners, and the Scottish Government. 

The national report was published as HM Chief Inspector of Education, Janie McManus gave the keynote speech at the Community Learning and Development Managers Scotland and Education Scotland joint conference in Glasgow.

Commenting on the findings, HM Chief Inspector Janie McManus said:

“The impact of CLD often reaches beyond a learning experience. CLD support can be quite life changing for those experiencing poverty, disadvantage, social isolation and those with disabilities, and mental health and wellbeing challenges.

“HM Inspectors consistently found that CLD provision was effective in reaching and supporting those who face additional challenges in their lives. The report highlights the positive impact CLD activities are having on those individuals. It highlights strengths such as the role that volunteers, local groups and voluntary organisations play in expanding that range of social, educational and community opportunities across Scotland.

“However, we also recognise the challenges facing the sector such as the disparity in the support to learners and communities with high levels of need across Scotland.  This was particularly evident in community-based adult learning where HM Inspectors found a narrowing of the offer.

“I hope that the recommendations contained in the report provide support to the CLD sector in adapting to meet changing needs.” 

As part of the new report, HM Inspectors have also published examples of highly effective practice identified during their visits to local authorities. The examples cover a range of emerging themes including ‘Youth voice in decision making’, ‘English for speakers of other languages’ and ‘Employability’.

HM Inspectors have also worked with local authorities to create two new podcasts that explore examples of highly effective practice with CLD workers and young people. Listen to the new episodes by searching for Education Scotland wherever you access your podcasts.