Learning plays a key role in the development of successful communities and in the growth of the local economy. Our most precious resource is our people, but the pace of change requires everyone, whatever their age, to be flexible and committed to lifelong learning. Worthing has a wide range of active voluntary and community organisations, a large number of schools and colleges who support a strong vibrant community. There is a growing partnership between these organisations to support lifelong learning but there are still significant needs for support and development.


THE TOWN WE WANT

Worthing will be a vibrant and pro active learning community with people of all ages learning and working together for the benefit of the town and its people. People of all ages will have access to learning activities to fulfil their potential as individuals and as members of the wider community. Children and their parents will be involved in learning together from a very early age, both before and throughout their school life. There will be a wide range of learning opportunities for people to learn in the way best fitted to their individual need. Adults will continue to learn in the work place and outside it and will use their skills and talents to support others. Worthing will have a dynamic and flexible work force with the skills needed for local business success.


WHAT WORTHING TOGETHER IS GOING TO DO NOW

• Increase the provision of high quality nursery education for young children.

• Develop multi-agency Children’s Centre(s) to provide integrated services to support young children and their families.

• Develop a wide range of out of school learning opportunities for children and families supported by the statutory and voluntary organisations.

• Develop the role of learning to support individuals’ development, health and wellbeing through Learning Champions.

• Engage the business community in the support and provision of learning opportunities through the College for Business initiative and the Education Business Partnership.


WHAT WORTHING TOGETHER IS GOING TO DO IN THE LONGER TERM

• Aim to open a Learning Shop in the town centre with outreach in targeted communities to promote all types of learning.

• Develop outreach learning and support provision in targeted wards.

• Promote lifelong learning opportunities.

• Monitor and respond to work force development needs.


HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED

• Get involved in your local school (as a governor, member of PTA etc).

• Become a Learning Champion in your community or in your work place.

• Volunteer your skills to support other learners.

• Encourage your work place to get involved in promoting and delivery of learning.

• Improve your knowledge or skills through formal or informal learning.


If you wish to get involved in any of these opportunities, please call either :

Community Planning Team Worthing Borough Council Tel : (01903) 221051

Or

Worthing Council for Voluntary Service Tel : (01903) 528620