Personal and Community Development Learning

Personal and Community Development Learning (PCDL) is what many people think of when they hear the term ‘adult education’. It might cover evening classes in creative writing and flower arranging. Equally, it can include confidence-building courses for people with mental health problems, or working with community groups to develop group facilitation skills. In a climate driven by an emphasis on economic skills, PCDL can provide a creative thinking space, sometimes leading to transformations for individuals and communities, often helping people to cope with their day-to-day lives.

The LSC defines PCDL as “learning for personal development, cultural enrichment, intellectual or creative stimulation, and enjoyment. It is also learning developed with local residents and others to build the skills, knowledge and understanding for social and community action. There is no requirement that learners must necessarily progress to other learning or achieve accreditation…This approach also recognises the wider benefits of learning in the community, including its contribution to broader government policies such as health (mental and physical well-being) and community cohesion” (Our Single Statement of Requirements, Learning & Skills Council, 2006)

NIACE is working on a number of projects, with providers, funders and other partners, exploring how to make sure that a diverse and stimulating range of PCDL is available for all.

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