Bury Council’s adult learning service has been told it needs to improve in two key areas following a recent inspection by Ofsted under its newly introduced reporting framework.
The inspection, which took place on 25 November 2025, used Ofsted’s updated five-point scale and found the service met the 'expected standard' in three out of five assessment areas. However, inspectors concluded that both ‘leadership and governance’ and ‘participation and development’ need attention.
Under the new grading system, services are judged as either exceptional, strong standard, expected standard, needs attention, or urgent improvement.
Inspectors found strengths in inclusion, learner achievement, and curriculum and teaching. Tutors were praised for their subject knowledge and commitment to serving learners in some of the borough’s most marginalised communities, including those with care responsibilities, asylum seekers and people from traveller backgrounds.
The report highlighted how adult learners across Bury were enrolled in suitable courses and acquiring new skills. Many felt a strong sense of community within the service. The council also ensures funding support for residents on low incomes or facing financial hardship.
However, the report pointed to significant shortfalls in staff development and careers guidance. Inspectors found that while leadership teams had taken steps to improve oversight of learner progress, tutors were not regularly benefiting from structured training to enhance their teaching. Leaders had identified this as a priority, but said ongoing external challenges had delayed progress.
Participation and development were similarly rated as ‘needs attention’. The report stated that only some learners received proper guidance on career pathways. Most lacked access to structured information about employment opportunities or the steps needed to achieve their goals.
Ofsted said: “Leaders are cognisant of factors that adversely impact on staff morale and workload. They have a strategic plan designed to improve staff’s contractual arrangements and provide structured training. However, a number of ongoing external factors beyond their control have impeded leaders in bringing about these improvements quickly.”
In response, a spokesperson for Bury Council said the report confirmed they were meeting expected standards in several key areas and had already begun to implement action plans to address areas highlighted for improvement.
They added: “Safeguarding continues to be a strong and effective area of practice, reflecting the service’s priority in maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment for all.”
Councillor Charlotte Morris, cabinet member for culture, the economy and skills, said: “Bury is the first authority to have a report published under Ofsted’s new inspection framework, and it’s a positive one. We are encouraged by those areas that are meeting standards, and committed to making improvements in the areas highlighted.”
At the time of the inspection, around 670 learners were enrolled in courses through Bury’s adult learning centres or community venues.
Woman found dead at Freehold Flats in Rochdale as murder investigation begins
Ramsbottom Duck Race draws record crowds as event sells out
🟥 LIVE on Day Two from Vintage Vibes 2026 at the East Lancs Railway
Vintage Vibes turns Bury station into something you simply do not see anywhere else
RECAP from Vintage Vibes 2026 at the East Lancs Railway on Day One
Parents face over 12 days of more disruption as St Cuthbert’s strike action continues
Community groups across Oldham mark World Bee Day with local events
Oldham students paddle for children's hospital appeal
Oldham campaign aims to create 100 apprenticeships in 100 days
Andy Burnham launches election campaign in sunny Makerfield
Six-way battle looms for crucial final seat on Bury council in Moorside ward
Vintage Vibes returns to East Lancashire Railway with music and nostalgia packed weekend
Comments
Add a comment