Adult participation in learning survey

Our Adult Participation in Learning survey is the longest running and most frequently occurring study of adult learning in the UK. It adopts a broad definition of learning, including formal, non-formal and informal learning, rather than just publicly offered educational opportunities for adults.

Each survey, 5,000 adults aged 17 and over are asked about:

  • their experiences of learning
  • when they last took part in learning
  • and how likely they are to do so in the future.

The survey, which began in 1996, provides a unique overview of the level of participation in learning by adults, with a detailed breakdown of participants and non-participants over a span of 25 years.

Our surveys consistently show that participation in learning varies by social class, employment status, age and prior learning.

Explore trend data from the past 27 years in our interactive charts. The data can be broken down by demographics, learning status and other useful variables.

The latest survey shows the number of adults participating in learning has hit a historic high, though inequalities persist between groups.

Media coverage of latest report

Get in touch

For further information about adult participation in learning or to talk to us about how you can get involved contact: Emily Jones