Monkton Priory Primary School’s successful mission to engage parents and the wider community in adult learning has been recognised with an Open University 50th Anniversary award.

The school won the OU50’s Special Award Category as part of the Inspire! Adult Learning Awards.

Head teacher Shelley Morris set out to provide adult education in the community by creating Launch Adult Learning in 2012.

She said: “The project has a clear purpose – achieving the best outcomes, raising attainment and aspirations for children within the setting and this goes hand in hand with providing opportunities for learning, skills and qualifications for parents.”

A wide range of accredited courses are available as well as foundation degrees in partnership with UWTSD (University of Wales Trinity St David). Site Safety training is also available which has proved invaluable for those seeking work in local industry.

“The courses are designed to give parents and the wider community the skills and confidence to find employment,” said Shelley.

To date, 1,546 adults have enrolled on classes, 79 students have achieved a foundation degree, and 53 students have gained a full BA degree – 18 of which are from the Gypsy and Traveller community. Four year-groups also run in the evenings.

“Learning together is our school motto,” said Shelley Morris. “The children see that education doesn’t finish when you become an adult. Seeing their parents and other adults studying sends a powerful message about the importance of learning, and has a hugely positive impact on the lives of both the child and the adult.”

A free crèche is also available to remove one of the main barriers to learning – which in itself is a source of training, with accredited crèche worker courses and a learning centre available thanks to Launch co-ordinator Kellie Bellmaine.

“We now have a pool of qualified crèche workers and they’ve accessed employment not only with us but with partner organisations,” said Kellie.

The celebratory OU50 awards aim to recognise organisation and individuals delivering learning in a unique and engaging way or opening up access to education in their community.