Chantry Academy has hailed the success of its first year of adult learning courses in which dozens of people have earned qualifications.

East Anglian Daily Times: The �14m Chantry Academy was developed for community use as well as youngsters, according to principal Craig D'Cunha. Picture: GREGG BROWNThe �14m Chantry Academy was developed for community use as well as youngsters, according to principal Craig D'Cunha. Picture: GREGG BROWN

The Active Learning Trust school launched its first programme of evening classes in January as part of a pledge to improve education and support adults in the Chantry community.

Run at the school with Realise Futures Learning and Development, 24 courses have been held for more than 150 people.

Chantry principal Craig D’Cunha, who gifted the use of the school free of charge, said: “Schools are at the heart of their communities and education does not finish at 3.15pm or even at 16 years old.

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to support adult learning in our community and look forward to more and more adults benefitting from the programmes on offer and enriching their lives.”

East Anglian Daily Times: Chantry Academy principal Craig D'Cunha said it was a part of the school's drive to benefit the wider community. Picture: GREGG BROWNChantry Academy principal Craig D'Cunha said it was a part of the school's drive to benefit the wider community. Picture: GREGG BROWN

He added that the £14 million facility was designed to “serve the community as a whole”.

As part of the feedback the school and Realise Futures gathered earlier in the year, learners were quizzed on what courses they would like to see in the future.

As a result, a further 10 courses are being offered from January 2018, with additional sessions on Saturdays alongside Tuesday and Wednesday evening classes.

From January 3, massage classes will run on Wednesdays, before computer skills for beginners kicks off from Saturday, January 6, level two counselling skills from January 8 on Monday evenings, and fast track IT office skills, also from January 8 on Monday and Tuesday evenings.

East Anglian Daily Times: Massage workshop at Chantry Academy. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNMassage workshop at Chantry Academy. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Outdoor skills will run on Thursdays from January 11, confidence for parents and carers on Wednesdays from January 17, and January 24 will be the launch of the Wednesday step ahead in English classes.

Jamie Mortimer, engagement manager at Realise Futures said Chantry was becoming a hub for community learning, and added: “The aim of the collaboration was to raise the aspirations of adults in the local community and we believe we are on the way to achieving that.

“We continue our commitment to supporting the Chantry community.”

To find out more about courses on offer and how to enrol call the school on 01473 687181.