New opportunities for adults to learn, develop skills and thrive
Residents across Buckinghamshire are set to benefit from more opportunities to gain qualifications, develop new skills and progress in their careers as Buckinghamshire Council takes on responsibility for the Adult Skills Fund from the government for the first time.
The move marks an important step in giving Buckinghamshire greater control over how skills funding is invested locally, helping to make it easier for residents to access the training, qualifications and support they need while ensuring opportunities are shaped around the needs of local communities and employers.
From the 2026/27 academic year, responsibility for the funding has been devolved from the Department for Education to Buckinghamshire Council. This will enable local decisions to be made about how funding is used – helping to create learning opportunities that support people into work, help them progress in their careers and strengthen Buckinghamshire's economy.
The Adult Skills Fund supports adults aged 19 and over to access a wide range of education and training opportunities. Whether someone wants to improve their English or maths, develop digital skills, gain a qualification, build confidence or take the next step in their career, the fund can help them access the support they need to succeed.
Learning opportunities funded through the programme include:
- English and maths qualifications
- Digital skills training
- English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
- Vocational courses in areas such as Construction, Leadership and Management, Bookkeeping and Accountancy, and Health and Social Care
- Tailored learning programmes focused on confidence building, preparing for work, family learning, wellbeing and community learning
Supporting residents to gain skills, confidence and qualifications is a key part of Buckinghamshire Council's ambition to create thriving communities and a strong local economy. By investing in lifelong learning and helping people reach their potential, the council is working to improve opportunities for residents and make Buckinghamshire an even better place to live, work and learn.
Steven Broadbent, Leader of Buckinghamshire Council, said:
"Learning has the power to change lives. It can build confidence, open doors to new opportunities and help people achieve their ambitions.
"We want to make it easier for Buckinghamshire residents to access the skills, qualifications and support they need to thrive, whether that's finding work, progressing in their career or learning something new.
“Having local control of the Adult Skills Fund means we can invest in the training opportunities that matter most to our residents and businesses, helping create a stronger economy and a brighter future for residents across Buckinghamshire."
Courses are delivered through a network of trusted education providers, including Buckinghamshire Adult Learning, Buckinghamshire College Group and a range of independent training organisations, making it easier for residents across the county to access high-quality learning and training close to where they live.
Residents interested in improving their skills, gaining qualifications or accessing training opportunities can find out more by visiting the Adult Skills Fund pages on the Buckinghamshire Council website.