Bucks Council takes on responsibility for Adult Skills Fund from government for first time

They say the move is an important step in giving the county greater control in how the funding is invested.

From the 2026/27 academic year, responsibility for Adult Skills Funding has been devolved from the Department for Education to Buckinghamshire Council.

The Funds supports adults aged 19 and over to access a wide range of education and training opportunities, with Bucks Council saying having control over the fund allows the county to locally decide how it's used, something they feel will help to make it easier for residents to access the training, qualifications and support they need while ensuring opportunities are shaped around local communities and employers. 

In doing so, they also hope to create learning opportunities that support people into work, help them progress in their careers and strengthen Buckinghamshire's economy. 

Steven Broadbent, Leader of Bucks Council, also said:

"Learning has the power to change lives. It can build confidence, open doors to new opportunities and help people achieve their ambitions.

"We want to make it easier for Buckinghamshire residents to access the skills, qualifications and support they need to thrive, whether that's finding work, progressing in their career or learning something new.

"Having local control of the Adult Skills Fund means we can invest in the training opportunities that matter most to our residents and businesses, helping create a stronger economy and a brighter future for residents across Buckinghamshire."

Learning opportunities funded through the programme include:

• English and maths qualifications
• Digital skills training
• English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
• Vocational courses in areas such as Construction, Leadership and Management, Bookkeeping and Accountancy, and Health and Social Care
• Tailored learning programmes focused on confidence building, preparing for work, family learning, wellbeing and community learning

The council say supporting residents to gain skills, confidence and qualifications is a key part of their ambition to create thriving communities and a strong local economy.

Those interested in finding out more about the Adult Skills Fund can click here (external).