The WEA has long been a cornerstone in our region's education, offering diverse learning opportunities tailored to local needs.  

Unlike traditional providers, we teach in familiar community settings, fostering adult-to-adult learning with a high degree of tailoring.  

However, recent defunding by NEMCA (North East Mayoral Combined Authority) threatens this inclusive approach. Instead, the focus shifts to colleges, excluding many vulnerable individuals.  

Not everyone has had the best experience at school and the idea of attending a college where formal classrooms and set teaching is on offer is unappealing. Yet these people often need education most to raise aspirations, develop confidence and provide new skills. 

We need to encourage and support different pathways back into education , outside of colleges – the WEA has a long proven history of doing this for over a hundred years.  
 
We ask you to sign our petition asking that WEA learning be protected.  
 
Why it matters:  

1. The WEA promotes social inclusion and equality by providing accessible and affordable learning opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life.  
2. It contributes to the economic prosperity of our region by equipping adults with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workforce and adapt to changing job markets.  
3. It provides an alternative route for those who feel colleges are inaccessible and where they can learn with and from peers in their community. 
4. The WEA strengthens communities, fosters civic engagement, and promotes lifelong learning, leading to healthier, more vibrant societies.  

We call on NEMCA to:  

1. Reinstate the WEA’s funding so that we can continue our work with our learners and partners in the region   
2. Protect community learning for residents in North East England, learning that is available to residents in all other regions in England 
3. Listen to the voices of adult learners, educators, and community members in shaping future adult education policies and initiatives 
4. Don’t forget about the learners who might not be ready to access colleges and universities – thereby excluding those who need education the most.  

Conclusion: Community adult education is not a luxury, but a fundamental right and a cornerstone of our democratic society. The WEA is a trusted organisation that has delivered this in the region for over a hundred years – working with local partners that are also supporting the region.  

We cannot afford to let it disappear or for community learning to be reserved only for those who are confident or have the existing qualifications to access colleges.  

We urge decision-makers to act swiftly and decisively to save community adult education in North East England.  
 
Sign this petition to show your support for saving community adult education in North East England and building a brighter future for our region. Together, we can make a difference and ensure we are not forgotten!