Last updated: 23 October 2025

Next review: 20 December 2025

What is the Adult Learning Service

Waltham Forest Adult Learning Service (ALS) is the council’s direct provider of adult education.  

The service provides a range of accredited and non-accredited learning opportunities and offers varied programmes to support residents in:  

  • developing new skills
  • gaining qualifications
  • achieving their personal and professional goals 

Whether you're returning to work, improving your English, gaining digital skills, or exploring a new subject, ALS has courses designed to meet your needs, such as: 

  • accredited qualifications
  • English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
  • digital and IT training
  • maths and English support
  • creative and wellbeing programmes 

Accessible learning

Courses are delivered in person and online, with options available during the day, in the evening, and at weekends. 

Many courses are free or low-cost for residents who are unemployed or on a low income. 

Helping you into work

Waltham Forest Adult Learning Service works in close partnership with Waltham Forest Jobs to help residents access employment and develop long-term careers. Through this collaboration, residents can benefit from a range of support, including: 

  • job clubs and employability workshops
  • CV and interview support
  • Passport to Work programmes
  • access to training, apprenticeships and job opportunities