Adult Skills Fund

As part of Cornwall's devolution agreement, Cornwall Council will take responsibility for the Adult Skills Fund (ASF) for Cornwall's residents commencing August 2025. Formerly known as the Adult Education Budget, ASF is designed to support education and training for individuals aged 19 and over. It aims to engage adults and provide them with the skills needed for entering and sustaining work, an apprenticeship / traineeship, or other further learning. 

Background

The Adult Skills Fund is a vital part of Cornwall's devolution deal, with Cornwall Council assuming responsibility for managing the fund starting in August 2025. 

This also includes the Free Courses for Jobs Fund (FCFJ). FCFJ aims to enable adults to access a level 3 qualification that helps improve wage outcomes, job prospects and gain skills that employers value. 

ASF and FCFJ provision are currently delivered by learning providers such as the local authority, further education colleges and independent training organisations. Historically, the funding has been administered by the Department for Education / Education and Skills Funding Agency. 

With the devolution of ASF, Cornwall Council takes on the role of commissioner, ensuring the effective delivery of adult learning and training for residents across the Duchy. 

Strategic Plans 

Adult Skills Fund Strategic Plan 

Cornwall Council's Adult Skills Fund Strategic Plan was approved by Cornwall Council Cabinet in May 2024 following consultation with a range of key stakeholders. The plan is built around the 4 key themes of Cornwall's Workforce and Skills Strategy: Inspire, Transform, Innovate and Thrive.

Adult Skills Fund Commissioning Plan 2025/26

The Commissioning Plan for the first year of devolution was approved by Cornwall Council Cabinet in November 2024 and sets out the Council's approach to administering ASF and FCFJ aligned to 3 core strands: 

1. Plan-led commissioning through the agreement of Delivery Plans with grant funded providers.
2. Procuring contracts for services. 
3. Innovation Fund.