Residents of Royal Tunbridge Wells have expressed growing concern regarding the future of adult education after the loss of various creative classes at The Amelia Scott. The changes have resulted in the end of courses such as silversmithing, art, and language programmes, leading to the redundancy of all tutors involved in those subjects.
The decision follows a reduction in funding from the Department for Education, which informed the Kent County Council of a 5.93 per cent budget cut, amounting to £521,000, effective 1 August 2025. National funding rules have been revised to prioritise skills for work, meaning that leisure-based courses in arts and crafts are no longer subsidised.
The situation has prompted a protest outside The Amelia Scott, which opened in 2022 as a £21 million culture and learning centre. Local residents have questioned why such a significant investment was made in facilities that are now seeing their service offerings reduced. The closures in Royal Tunbridge Wells follow similar moves in Sevenoaks and Gravesend, where adult education centres were shut following decisions made in September 2024.
Justine Rutland, a cabinet member for Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, expressed dismay regarding the withdrawal of these long-established creative courses. She also noted the council’s frustration over the lack of clear communication from the county council regarding future provision in the area.
Councillor Beverley Fordham, the cabinet member for education and skills at the Kent County Council, stated that the council remains committed to providing high-quality adult education. She explained that while the method of delivery is changing to focus on supporting residents to gain skills for work, wellbeing, and personal growth, officials are still reviewing potential venues for future courses. At this time, no decision has been made regarding the future use of the studio space and equipment currently housed at The Amelia Scott.
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