Education and lifelong learning

Since becoming a unitary authority in 1998, we've achieved great things, and we're still working hard to make the borough an even better place to live, work, invest and learn.

We have twice had Beacon Status for education and we’ve won national awards and praise for our support for schools and adult learning in the borough.

Over £25 million is currently being invested in education initiatives, including new schools, city learning centres, children's centres and an Academy in Darwen (in partnership with the Rodney Aldridge Trust.) Over 11,000 adults have taken up a wide range of courses and learning opportunities from learning about computers to improving their English. We aim to provide learning when and where people want – whether that’s a local community centre, pub, community building or mosque.