As we approach the Easter break, we would like to take a moment to share some key updates from Adult Learning Wales, including highlights from our Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Annual Conference, both held on 3rd April 2025 in Llandudno. These events were a great success, providing an opportunity to bring together learners, educators, policymakers, and community partners to discuss the transformative role of education in building peace.

The Annual Conference featured inspiring keynote addresses, engaging panel discussions, and powerful stories from learners and community partners. Central to the day were themes such as lifelong learning, inclusion, and international collaboration, all of which are core to our mission. It was also a privilege to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our learners during the Learner Awards, demonstrating the life-changing impact of adult education.

At the AGM, we formally appointed Bernie Davies as Vice-President, bringing her wealth of experience to this important role. We also introduced key updates to our constitution, which will help guide us as we continue to evolve and grow as an organisation.

The insights gathered from both the AGM and the conference are now directly informing our Strategic Plan for 2025–2028, which is currently out for consultation. We are eager to align this plan with our curriculum offer and ensure that it supports the networking opportunities our learners need. This plan will provide a clear roadmap for the future, helping us respond to sector challenges and prepare for the opportunities ahead. We invite feedback on the plan until 30th April 2025, and we appreciate the positive and constructive responses we’ve received so far.

As part of this strategic direction, we are advancing our work on digital innovation, artificial intelligence, equity, diversity, and sustainability—all of which will shape both what we offer and how we deliver it. We remain committed to supporting staff wellbeing and fostering a culture of long-term sustainability across the organisation.

The impact of our work continues to grow, with over 7,500 learners engaged this year. The feedback from learners and staff alike reflects the success of our inclusive, learner-centred approach. Our recent Estyn inspection further reinforced the positive outcomes of our work, and we look forward to the final report, due in June.

We are also focused on sustainability, with ongoing initiatives aimed at reducing our carbon footprint and promoting energy-efficient practices across our estate.

Finally, we would like to express our sincere appreciation to Dr John Graystone, who’s time as Chair of Council concluded at the end of March. John’s leadership and commitment to lifelong learning have had a lasting impact on our organisation, and we are deeply grateful for his service and guidance.

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to working with you as we move into the summer term and continue our mission to support learners across Wales.

Warm regards,

Steve Nicholls, Chair of the Council
Kathryn Robson, Chief Executive