Guidance for learners on use of ALW email address

You may have wondered why we provided you with an ALW email address when you enrolled. There are many different reasons for this – security, GDPR, support, password recovery, on-boarding to Teams classes etc.

There has been a growing risk of cyber-attacks on businesses, and colleges are no different. Asking you to use an ALW email address is part of our approach to keeping you, and your information, safe from those who might attempt to steal it.

Why you should use your college email for online learning

Using your official organisational email (e.g., 123456@adultlearning.wales) instead of a personal email (like Gmail or Outlook) helps make your learning smoother, safer, and more supported.

1. Secure and safe access
   • Your college email is protected and managed by the IT team.
   • It helps keep your personal data and learning materials safe.
   • You’re less likely to run into login or access issues.
2. Better learning experience
   • You’ll get automatic access to your classes, assignments, and resources.
   • Teachers can easily find and contact you.
   • You’ll be added to the right Teams and groups without delays.
3. Support when you need it
   • If you forget your password or have trouble logging in, the college can help.
   • With a personal email, support is limited and slower.
4. Everything works together
   • Your college email links with Microsoft Teams, OneDrive, Outlook, and other tools.
   • You can submit assignments, join meetings, and collaborate easily.
5. It helps to keep you organised
   • All your learning messages, files, and updates are in one place.
   • You won’t miss important announcements or deadlines.

Tip: Always check your college email regularly so you don’t miss anything important!