Reading College, a campus of the Activate Learning group in Reading, Berkshire, has announced an expansion of its adult education provision. The college publicly announced the rollout on 5 February 2026 after additional Department for Education funding was confirmed in late 2025.
The college received the additional allocation via the Department for Education’s Adult Skills Fund (ASF), the government’s funding route for much adult further education. The ASF supports people aged 19 and over — particularly those with low skills, the unemployed and low‑wage workers — to gain the qualifications and training they need for work.
Local residents can now sign up for more places on courses in digital technologies, health services, and green/clean energy skills. The funding will be used to hire specialised tutors and to expand flexible learning options, including evening and weekend classes for people who work during the day.
The expansion aligns with national skills policy priorities to boost employment and progression into higher‑value roles, as discussed in House of Commons Library research. Reading College says the additional places will help fill local skills gaps and support the Berkshire economy.
Enrolment is open now for courses starting in the spring and summer intakes of 2026. Residents who want more information can visit Reading College at its Kings Road campus (Kings Road, Reading, RG1 4HJ) or consult the college’s adult learning course pages for details about qualifications and how to apply.
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