Education and training

Hammersmith & Fulham Adult Learning and Skills Service (HFALS) is an adult education provider offering a broad and inclusive programme of learning opportunities for residents aged 19 and over. The service supports individuals to develop knowledge, practical skills and qualifications and to access opportunities for employment, further learning and participation in local community life.

HFALS delivers provision that reflects the diversity of the borough and is designed to meet a wide range of learner needs. Courses are available for individuals at different starting points, including those with little or no prior formal education, those seeking to refresh existing skills, and those aiming to progress in their personal or professional development. The service operates within a framework of inclusive practice, aiming to provide a supportive learning environment in which learners can participate, progress and achieve.

The curriculum is structured to offer a balance of essential skills, vocational pathways and personal interest courses. Provision is designed to support not only formal progression routes such as employment or further study, but also wider outcomes including independence, confidence, communication and social engagement.

HFALS offers a broad curriculum across a range of subject areas. Within each area, courses are delivered at different levels and may include accredited and non-accredited options, depending on the course aims and learner needs:

English:

Courses include Functional Skills English from Entry Level to Level 2 and non-accredited courses focused on reading, writing, spelling and grammar. Provision also supports the development of speaking and listening skills, with an emphasis on communication in everyday and workplace contexts.

ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)

ESOL courses are available from Pre-entry to Level 2 and cover reading, writing, speaking and listening. Some courses include contextualised learning linked to employment or community participation, as well as opportunities to develop confidence in using English in practical, real-life situations.

Maths

Maths provision includes Functional Skills from Entry Level to Level 2, GCSE maths and courses focused on numeracy for everyday use. Learning includes budgeting, problem-solving and applying mathematical understanding in practical situations such as work or home environments.

Family Learning

Family learning courses support adults to engage in learning that relates to their children’s development and education. These may include literacy and numeracy activities, learning through play and creative or practical sessions designed to support shared learning experiences.

Digital, Computing and Business

Courses in this area include basic digital skills, IT user skills, and the use of common software applications such as word processing and spreadsheets. Provision also covers online communication tools, digital safety and the use of technology for accessing services and employment opportunities. Business courses cover a range of practical topics, including digital promotion, web design, cybersecurity and running a business. They support learners to develop skills in marketing, online presence, digital safety and business planning, helping them understand how to start, manage and grow a business in a modern, digital environment.

Languages and Interpreting

Provision includes language courses at beginner and intermediate levels, focusing on speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. Courses also include cultural awareness and introductory interpreting skills, supporting both personal interest and potential vocational pathways. The Level 3 Interpreting course provides a recognised pathway into the profession, equipping learners with the skills, knowledge and practical experience needed to work as a qualified interpreter.

Health , Childcare and Teaching

Courses cover introductory knowledge in childcare, early years and supporting teaching and learning in schools. Some provision also includes health awareness and wellbeing topics, supporting both personal development and potential progression into related sectors. The Level 3 Teaching and Training course provides a recognised introduction to teaching, supporting learners to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence required to plan and deliver effective learning in further education and adult learning settings.

Arts and Crafts

Creative courses include drawing, painting, crafts and design-based activities, which support the development of practical creative skills and provide opportunities for personal expression and learning in a structured environment.

Agewell Provision

Agewell courses are designed for older learners and include a range of activities that support continued learning and participation. Courses focus on maintaining skills, developing new interests and engaging in structured learning activities that contribute to social participation and wellbeing.

Special Educational Needs ( SEN)

SEN provision includes tailored courses designed to meet a range of additional learning needs. Courses focus on communication, independence, and practical life skills and are delivered in structured settings with appropriate support to enable participation and progression.

HFALS supports progression through the integration of transferable skills across the curriculum and through access to information, advice and guidance. Learners are supported to identify suitable courses and progression routes that align with their individual goals, whether these relate to employment, further study or personal development.

Employability skills, such as communication, organisation, teamwork and problem-solving are embedded within teaching and learning activities across different subject areas. In addition, learners can access specific support with job applications, CV development and interview preparation.

Courses are delivered by qualified tutors who use a range of teaching methods to meet different learning needs and preferences. Delivery may include classroom-based learning, practical activities, group work and independent study, depending on the subject and level.

The service maintains a focus on quality and continuous improvement. Teaching and learning are supported by structured course planning, assessment and opportunities for learners to provide feedback on their experience.

HFALS aims to ensure that learning is accessible to a wide range of residents. Provision includes support for learners with additional needs as well as opportunities for those who may have experienced barriers to education in the past. Some courses may be fully or partially funded for eligible learners, helping to reduce financial barriers to participation.

Inclusive practice is embedded across the service, with adjustments made where possible to support participation. This includes adapting teaching approaches, providing additional support and designing courses that are appropriate for different levels of ability and experience.