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Sutton College of Learning for Adults (SCOLA) is the premier provider of Adult Education and Community Learning in the London Borough of Sutton offering over 1000 part-time courses at 7 main centres and numerous community venues in the day and evening. The College also offers work-based training (NVQs) and tailor-made training for employers

Background

SCOLA was formed in 1972 when the local council decided to unite adult learning provision in the Borough under one umbrella. The result was the specialist college building in St Nicholas Way with its excellent facilities, together with 6 other main Centres.

Originally named Sutton College of Liberal Arts, the College changed its name to Sutton College of Learning for Adults in 2001 and is one of very few Adult and Community Learning services in the country to have its own purpose-built centre.

There are over 1000 courses to choose from listed on the web, and in addition to these, we also work with community groups and local employers.

More than 10,000 individual learners enjoyed classes with us last year – we hope you will find something of interest in our programme and look forward to you joining us. Full details of courses and services are available on this website.

Funding & Fees

While still a London Borough of Sutton service, the College receives funding from the Learning and Skills Council, which also has responsibility for strategic planning across the South London region.

All Colleges are given targets to reach in terms of student numbers, including attracting certain disadvantaged groups of people and income from fees.

Currently the income we are expected to receive from fees is about 47% of the total expenditure and the balance is provided by the London South LSC, some LEA grants and successful bids for particular provision.

Future Funding & the National Context

Funding for Adult Education is changing. The Government's focus for funding is geared towards improving work-related skills, adult literacy and numeracy skills (Skills for Life) and the achievement of Level 2 (i.e. equivalent to 5 GCSEs grades A-C). In this country, there are 5 million adults with poor literacy skills and 15 million with poor numeracy skills. The Government has set a national target to help 2.25 million adults achieve literacy and numeracy skills by 2010, and to help as many adults as possible achieve a first full Level 2 qualification with free training, either within work or by part-time study.

What does this mean for SCOLA students?

A 'safeguard' has been offered for funding non-accredited adult education 'for a wide and varied range of learning opportunities for personal fulfilment, including those for older people and for family learning.' However, there is a clear expectation that those learning for personal or community development should make a greater contribution in the future to the costs of learning.

Governing Body

SCOLA has a Governing Body, which includes representatives from the local authority, schools, businesses, staff and students. There are also various sub-committees with student representation.

The College is committed to providing a happy environment in which effective learning can take place and we value all of your comments, suggestions and compliments. Your views are taken seriously and will be included in an annual report as part of the process of continuing improvement.

Annual Report 2007/08

The SCOLA Annual Report for 2007/08 highlights the work of the College during the year, including new developments, work with partners, quality measures and student achievements.