This report sets out the results of work undertaken by Learning and Work Institute in 2017/18 to develop and test the use of social metrics in Adult Community Learning provision to capture a range of wider outcomes of learning.
The report highlights lessons learned, examples of effective practice and suggests ways in which the use of social metrics in adult learning provision might be developed in future. It also features case studies of providers’ experiences in embedding social metrics in adult learning provision.
29 May 2026
Multiply adult numeracy randomised controlled trials
Alongside Ipsos and other partners, L&W has conducted Randomised Control Trials to evaluate the effectiveness of existing and new interventions to improving adult numeracy.
29 May 2026
I found my voice through lifelong learning – others deserve the same chance
Ed Balls, Former Cabinet Minister and Shadow Chancellor, sets out why lifelong learning is vital for the country.
1 May 2026
Driving Change in Higher Education
Learning and Work Institute is working in partnership with The Carers Federation with funding from The National Lottery Community Fund to improve the support that young adult carers receive in higher education.
19 March 2026
ESOL provision for 16–19-year-olds
Learning and Work Institute (L&W) was commissioned by the South East Strategic Partnership for Migration (SESPM) and funded by MHCLG, to research availability, challenges and opportunities in ESOL provision for 16-19‑year‑olds across the South East.
13 March 2026
Training and skills needs: Trends and challenges in UK growth sectors
This report, the second in a series of publications funded by Nuffield Foundation, explores the level of estimated skills needs in UK businesses alongside the level and type of training that employers provide.
13 March 2026
UK’s training and skills ‘tick-box culture’ puts at risk job mobility and future growth, new report warns
New analysis has identified an overreliance on mandatory and compliance training in UK workplaces compared to other countries – at the expense of more in-depth upskilling required for the jobs of the future.
2 March 2026
When it comes to lifelong learning, are we any closer to the College of the Future?
Stephen Evans, Chief Executive at Learning and Work Institute, reflects on the role of colleges in providing adults with opportunity and agency throughout their lives.
2 March 2026
Why adult education is an investment, not a cost
David Hughes, CEO at the Association of Colleges, sets out why a well-funded, high-quality adult education system is beneficial to society and the economy.
22 December 2025
From confusion to clarity: rethinking England’s 670 occupational standards
L&W’s Stephen Evans and Pearson’s Donna Ford-Clarke reflect on findings from our recent research on England’s occupational standards – of which there are now more than double the number in countries like Germany and Switzerland.
