Adult learning accountability agreement

Approach to developing the annual accountability statement

This Accountability Statement has been developed in line with the Northamptonshire Adult Learning Service Strategic Plan (2023-2027) and informed by a range of evidence sources, stakeholder engagement activities and local, regional and national priorities.

To identify our priorities for 2026/27, we analysed local demographic, socio-economic and labour market intelligence including data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), NOMIS, Census 2021, local authority strategies and employment data. We also reviewed national policy developments, Department for Education guidance, National Skills Priorities and emerging labour market trends.

The service has engaged with a wide range of stakeholders in developing this statement, including North Northamptonshire Council, West Northamptonshire Council, employers, community organisations, schools, Family Hubs, Jobcentre Plus, SEND partners and other education and training providers. This engagement has helped ensure that our curriculum reflects local community need, supports economic growth and provides clear progression opportunities for learners.

NALS continues to engage with employer representative bodies and partners involved in the South East Midlands Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP). Through participation in LSIP discussions and employer engagement activities, we have considered identified skills shortages and workforce priorities when planning our curriculum offer. These priorities have informed the development of provision in areas including health and social care, digital skills, employability, early years and customer service.

The service also works collaboratively with a range of local providers and stakeholders to support progression pathways, reduce barriers to participation and avoid unnecessary duplication of provision. Our curriculum planning places particular emphasis on supporting adults who face disadvantage, low skills, economic inactivity or additional barriers to learning, whilst ensuring clear routes into further learning, employment and improved wellbeing.

Review of 2025/26

During 2025/26, Northamptonshire Adult Learning Service (NALS) continued to deliver a broad programme of community and accredited learning opportunities that supported adults to improve their skills, confidence and wellbeing. The service strengthened its place-based approach to curriculum planning and delivery, ensuring provision responded to community need, employer priorities and local labour market demand. Particular focus was given to widening participation for learners experiencing disadvantage and expanding opportunities within English for Speakers of Other Language (ESOL).

Throughout the year, NALS continued to develop partnerships with local authorities, employers, schools, community organisations, Jobcentre Plus, the National Careers Service and further education providers to support progression pathways and improve learner outcomes.

The service also continued its transformation programme, strengthening direct delivery in priority curriculum areas and refining its tailored learning offer.

Performance data, learner feedback, employer engagement activity and labour market intelligence have informed the priorities and objectives set out within this 2026/27 Accountability Statement. Building on progress made during 2025/26, key areas for further development include increasing progression from tailored learning into accredited provision, strengthening employer engagement, expanding provision in priority skills sectors, enhancing opportunities for learners with additional needs, and supporting progression into employment, further learning and positive life outcomes. The priorities outlined in this statement reflect NALS's ongoing commitment to meeting local, regional and national skills needs and responding to LSIP priorities.

Last updated 13 October 2026