iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

Ever wondered what actually happens during the autumn political conference season? Beyond the major headlines and main stage speeches lies a vibrant space for debate, policy development, and campaigning. Read our full explainer blog at www.wea.org.uk/news-views/b...

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 19/09/2026

With just 2s 6d from her housekeeping budget, the equivalent of around £14 today, Frances Mansbridge changed British education forever. Born on this day in 1875, she co-founded the WEA in 1903 with her husband Albert to bring education to working-class communities.

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

Today is your LAST CHANCE to have your say on the future of lifelong learning. Don't miss out on sharing your ideas, experiences and thoughts: the deadline is 23:59 tonight. Share them here: www.wea.org.uk/labs/submit #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

In August 1903, a vision for accessible education brought trade unionists and academics together in Oxford to found the WEA. Over a century later, that same passion for lifelong learning drives everything we do. www.wea.org.uk/labs #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

Traditional education isn't the only route to success. R&B icon Craig David struggled at school and left college early, yet went on to earn an honorary doctorate. There's just 7 Days to have your say in our Lifelong Learning Labs campaign. www.wea.org.uk/labs/submit #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

WEA CEO Simon Parkinson responds to yesterday’s Ministerial Statement on Education and Skills reform from Secretary of State for Education Lucy Powell: www.wea.org.uk/news-views/n... #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

A slice of WEA history from 1911: a membership card and programme from our Reading Branch. You can uncover some digital copies of our Highway magazine in our online archive: www.wea.org.uk/archive

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

As AI moves fast and risks leaving people behind, local support and simple learning tools can help everyone stay confident online. Dr Emma Stone of Good Things Foundation shows how lifelong learning can help people navigate the fast moving world of AI. www.wea.org.uk/news-views/b... #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

Lots of us take basic tools like a keyboard or a mouse for granted, but without essential digital skills, how can anyone expect to succeed in today's workplace? Get involved in our campaign and have your say on our website. www.wea.org.uk/labs #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

In this guest blog for our Lifelong Learning Labs campaign, Alison Morris from @skillsfederation.bsky.social explores why essential skills matter most in an AI-driven workplace. Read the full blog here: www.wea.org.uk/news-views/b... #WEALabs

Organisations need people who can operate machinery, use specialist software, understand processes, and meet the technical requirements of their roles.

But technical skills alone are not enough.

Alison Morris, Director of Policy, Skills Federation

As workplaces become more complex, essential skills are increasingly what enables technical knowledge to be applied successfully.

Essential skills that enable people to adapt, learn and thrive. In an AI-enabled workplace, these capabilities are not becoming less valuable. They are becoming the skills that matter most.

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

Maths anxiety isn't just 'disliking numbers'. It's a real fear that causes stress and affects one in three adults in the UK. Fear of maths has nothing to do with your intelligence, which means anyone can overcome it. Learn more: www.wea.org.uk/labs/submit #WEALabs

It can trigger
pain and fear responses 1 in 5 UK adults (20%) report feeling physically sick when faced with maths

Over a third (36%) of all UK adults live with it Because of this, 29% of adults actively avoid tasks involving numbers altogether

Avoiding numbers can have financial consequences 35% of jobseekers say they put
off applying for a role if a job description mentions numbers

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

Understanding tech is no longer optional: it’s an essential skill for independence. This guest blog from Age UK shows how digital inclusion is transforming lives: www.wea.org.uk/news-views/b... #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

Great to see this article referencing our Head of Partnerships Nusrat Hathiari's comments on threats to ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). Thank you to @wmc-adultlearning.bsky.social for keeping this important conversation moving. feweek.co.uk/reform-poses...

feweek.co.uk

Reform poses threat to ESOL we can’t ignore

The idea that migrants can simply 'learn English on an app' misunderstands language learning

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

From maths in the supermarket to holiday budgeting, summer often highlights gaps in our own essential skills. Millions of UK adults struggle with basic English, maths, or digital skills. A national lifelong learning strategy can fix this. www.wea.org.uk/labs/submit #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

What does diversifying the curriculum really mean for lifelong learning? Catch-up with WEA CEO Simon Parkinson and Anwar Akhtar of Samosa Media as they unpack the opportunities and challenges facing educators today in our free to view member lecture. www.wea.org.uk/news-views/b...

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 23/07/2026

In 1939, George Orwell contributed to our Highway magazine, sharing his reflections on conflict, heartbreak, and hope. Scroll through the images to learn more. You can read Orwell's full Highway article on our website here: www.wea.org.uk/news-views/b... #WEALabs

Did you know George Orwell once wrote for the WEA?

W.E. Williams, editor of WEA’s Highway magazine, was producing a special edition called ‘Democracy At Work’ and wrote to Orwell asking him to contribute.

WEA members were familiar with Orwell’s popular texts of the time such as The Road to Wigan Pier and Down and Out in London and Paris.

Orwell contributed an article called ‘Caesarean Section in Spain’ on the Spanish Civil War which was published March 1939.

Having been wounded in the conflict, his words were a mix of heartbreak and hope for the people of Spain.

In his book 1984, George Orwell showed how manufactured hatred and fake news can control people.

His work teaches to question what we read.

It is the toolkit for media literacy, proving that truth is the best defence against division.

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

We recently hosted a webinar as part of our Lifelong Learning Labs campaign, debating why lifelong learning is being sidelined, and how we bring it back. Watch the recording on our blog: buff.ly/kHuGvkO #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 30/06/2026

Its you 𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 to join our webinar: Lifelong learning – shaping the future by learning from history. Don't miss out: secure your place now: www.wea.org.uk/events/futur... #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 25/06/2026

Public events, talks and lectures have been part of the WEA story for generations. With our new Purpose to Pen series, we’re building on that legacy in a fresh way. Learn more: www.eventbrite.com/cc/purpose-t...

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 18/06/2026

"𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐚 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐰𝐡𝐲 𝐈 𝐝𝐨 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐝𝐨." In this blog, WEA Tutor Team Leader Jenny Blackwell takes us through her recent experiences at an ESOL enrolment event. Read more: www.wea.org.uk/news-views/b... #WEALabs

“One of the most rewarding moments was watching learners leave the venue smiling, excited, and far more confident than when they first arrived.

That shift from nervousness to optimism reminded me of the real impact ESOL courses have.”

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 16/06/2026

Its just two weeks until our free webinar: Lifelong learning – shaping the future by learning from history. Learn more and secure your place: www.wea.org.uk/events/futur... #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 08/06/2026

40+ nationalities. Countless powerful stories. One vibrant community. Live in or around Bristol? Join the WEA Community Learning Hub in St Pauls for an open day on 10th June celebrating the incredible courage and resilience of our ESOL learners. www.wea.org.uk/events/cultu... #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 28/05/2026

"If we don’t support young adults to move forward, today’s problem doesn’t fade it just grows up." WEA CEO @simonparkinson.bsky.social responds to today's draft report on economically inactive young people: www.wea.org.uk/news-views/n...

wea.org.uk

WEA responds to draft report on Neets | WEA

WEA responds to the draft report on economically inactive young people

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 26/05/2026

Free webinar: Lifelong learning – shaping the future by learning from history Join us online on 30th June (1pm–2pm) to explore the Centenary Commission on Adult Education's vision for lifelong learning in 2026. Secure your place: www.wea.org.uk/events/futur... #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 25/05/2026

Everyone deserves to feel respected and safe in the workplace. 🔬 What does proper workplace support look like to you? Share your thoughts in our May Labs. Because adults deserve better. www.wea.org.uk/labs #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 17/05/2026

At a time when division feels loud, we’re spotlighting kindness. 💚 We are a partner of A Million Acts of Hope, a national movement celebrating the everyday care and connection that holds our communities together. Learn more: millionactsofhope.org #MillionActsOfHope

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 15/05/2026

Learning is often seen as a route into work. But here’s what happens when it supports people already in it. Have your say in the Labs: www.wea.org.uk/labs/submit #WEALabs

Flexible learning improves workplaces: here's the proof

We teamed up with a leading supplier of fresh produce to launch an initiative that’s transforming lives both in and outside the workplace.

Around 70 of their shift workers now take part in face‑to‑face ESOL sessions tailored to fit smoothly around their shift patterns.

Here’s what they said:

“The programme has improved communication, confidence, and integration, enabling operatives to engage with managers and reducing production and training time by half, which supports retention.”

“Beyond language skills, the initiative fosters cultural cohesion and celebrates diversity, helping staff integrate into British culture.”

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 10/05/2026

𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝐋𝐚𝐛𝐬 🪞 Throughout April we've been exploring how lifelong learning is the glue that holds our communities together. But what did we learn? Scroll the images for our reflections. Visit www.wea.org.uk/labs #WEALabs

“Learning or volunteering in your community changes your viewpoint of who you are.”

This is just one insight from our second Lifelong Learning Labs roundtable.

While there is much evidence regarding the social impact of learning, it’s often ignored in policy focused on employment.

This raised some important questions:

Should a national lifelong learning strategy address loneliness?

How do we protect our third spaces?

Is volunteering a form of learning?

The message was clear:

We must reclaim the social aspect of social learning.

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 04/05/2026

Don't let the long weekend slip away without making your voice heard! 🧪 Why not spend a few minutes of your Early May bank holiday helping us shape the future of lifelong learning? Have your say at via our survey at www.wea.org.uk/labs/submit #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 03/05/2026

Standing up for good work ✊️ 100 years ago today, the 1926 General Strike begun. It redefined the fight for fair pay and collective power. Is there enough support for people in low paid or insecure work in the UK? Have your say: www.wea.org.uk/labs #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 29/04/2026

Our Chair of Trustees, John Widdowson has come to the end of his tenure and will be stepping down from the role in July 2026. Current Vice Chair, Geoff Layer has been appointed as the new Chair and will begin his appointment in August 2026. Read more: www.wea.org.uk/news-views/n...

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 23/04/2026

Happy #WorldBookNight! Did you know 1 in 3 adults in England don’t regularly read for pleasure, rising to 1 in 2 of young people? World Book Night unites adults across the UK with reading. They are encouraging everyone to join in the #ReadingHour from 7-8pm tonight. #GoAllIn

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 20/04/2026

🌳 Learning helps you grow and branch out🌱 From growing confidence to reducing isolation, the roots of community learning go deeper than you think. How has community learning positively impacted your life? Have your say: thewea.info/3NTpl0K #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 19/04/2026

𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐚 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞? Join us as a WEA Story Club volunteer! Help us build an inclusive community where members connect through literature. Apply now: www.wea.org.uk/volunteering #Volunteering #GoAllIn

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 17/04/2026

𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 🗳️ English local, Scottish Parliament and Welsh Senedd elections are taking place on Thursday 7 May. Check out our images for a quick how-to guide on the upcoming elections.

When are the elections?
Thursday 7 May 2026

What is happening?
English council elections,
English mayoral elections,
Scottish Parliament elections,
and Welsh Senedd elections all take place on this day.

Do I have to be registered to vote?

Yes! The deadline for registering to vote is Monday 20 April.

For postal votes, or proxy votes (someone voting for you) the deadline is Tuesday 21 April.

Details on how to register, or check if you are already registered, can be found at
gov.uk/register-to-vote

How do I vote in the May elections?

Either in person at your local polling station on election day, by postal vote or by nominating someone to vote on your behalf.

You must be 18 to vote in local elections in England, or 16 to vote in Scottish Parliament elections.

Do I need ID to vote?

If you’re voting in person in England, you will need to bring valid photo ID with you. (ID is not needed in Scotland or Wales)

No ID? You can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate:

gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 15/04/2026

When you think of your experiences of learning, you might remember sitting at a desk in a quiet classroom. But lifelong learning is different. It isn’t just about what you’re learning, but the people you’re learning with too. Visit our blog: thewea.info/3Oggo1o #WEALabs

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Reposted by The WEA

Chris Butcher @weachrisbutcher.bsky.social · 08/04/2026

In case you missed it: great blog from Monica Boulton, posted on Social Prescribing Day but relevant all year round and building on a great discussion at our recent Lifelong Learning Labs roundtable on health & wellbeing

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 26/03/2026

"𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐤𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐬 𝐮𝐬 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥? 𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐞." This Social Prescribing Day, Monica Boulton of the National Academy for Social Prescribing explores the links between social prescribing & lifelong learning. #WEALabs #SocialPrescribingDay thewea.info/4dJZPW2

Two ladies sitting at a table waving at the camera.

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 19/03/2026

One down, five to go! 🧪 Our CEO, Simon Parkinson, shares his reflections on Tuesday's first Lifelong Learning Labs roundtable. Thanks to everyone who attended for sharing your thoughts and recommendations with us. Have your say: bit.ly/41aucxo #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 13/03/2026

We believe ESOL classes are a vital tool for empowerment. High-quality English language courses are a fundamental right, essential for fostering the sense of belonging and community integration. www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...

bbc.co.uk

Rising demand for English language courses in West Yorkshire

New arrivals to the UK say the courses help them integrate and improve their communication skills.

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 09/03/2026

🧠✨Learning doesn’t just sharpen your skills, it strengthens your mind 🧠✨ The health benefits of lifelong learning are a vital part of our #WEALabs research. How has lifelong learning positively impacted your wellbeing? Have your say: thewea.info/4dcWFK5

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Reposted by The WEA

Chris Butcher @weachrisbutcher.bsky.social · 28/02/2026

The @weaadulted.bsky.social Lifelong Learning Labs have got off to a flying start. If you'd like to know more and get involved, follow the links below. The future of lifelong learning is up to us working together.

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 25/02/2026

‼️ Your reminder to complete the GFT Educational Trust workers’ survey on trade union education. This is your chance to share your experience of trade unions and union education and impact the future. ⏱️ It only takes 3-7 minutes to complete. Take part now: gftuet.org.uk/workersvoice...

gftuet.org.uk

Workers Voices 2026 - GFTU Educational Trust

Workers’ Voices 2026

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 24/02/2026

The Lifelong Learning Labs are here and we’re inviting you in. They’re a national experiment exploring what learning unlocks for adults at work, at home and in our communities. Because adults deserve better. Have your say: thewea.info/4axvRCH #WEALabs

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 10/02/2026

Today is Safer Internet Day, and we’re helping you stay one step ahead of the scrolls. Join our popular Social Media Disinformation course to learn how to spot "fake news," verify sources, and outsmart the algorithms: thewea.info/_disinformat... #SaferInternetDay #DigitalSkills

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 06/02/2026

Government plans to link volunteering with immigration status have raised concerns across the charity sector. We’re adding our voice to that of @ncvo.bsky.social, who are calling for a different approach. Learn more: thewea.info/45PRNGr

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 04/02/2026

Democracy isn't just built at the ballot box, it’s also built in our social clubs. For 100 years, lifelong learning has been the engine of social renewal. But to make it work, we need spaces where we can actually meet, talk, and grow together. thewea.info/45Gqtua

thewea.info

Why adult education – and our democracy – needs social clubs

Stay updated with the Centre for Democratic Business' insights on the most significant events and developments in the spheres of policy, business, and the economy as a whole.

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 02/02/2026

We all seek activities that help us relax, reduce stress, and improve our mental health on a budget, yet we often struggle to find them. If you're unsure where to start, here are some ideas for creative hobbies you can easily start or pick up again.

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 28/01/2026

Meet Terri. “To me, sewing is a life skill and something that should be taught in schools everywhere from a young age." This International Creativity Month, why not embrace your creativity and improve your wellbeing? We're here for you.

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The WEA @weaadulted.bsky.social · 27/01/2026

This ITV News feature on young asylum seekers highlights a truth we see every day at the WEA: learning is a lifeline. For these young people, a classroom isn't just about textbooks; it’s about dignity, belonging, and the hope of rebuilding a life. www.itv.com/news/2026-01...

itv.com

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