Calderdale SmartSearch is an Online directory of adult learning opportunities available in the Calderdale area. The project has been set up as a joint venture between Calderdale SmartMove, an independent homlessness charity and Calderdale Adult Learning. Our aim is to provide an extensive and up to date list of learning opportunities in the local area.

Funding for this project has been provided by The Learning Revolution Transformation Fund which is managed by NIACE (The National Institute of Adult Continuing Education). For more information on The Transformation Fund please visit www.transformationfund.org.uk

Informal Adult Learning: A Working Definition

Informal learning is learning for its intrinsic value. It encompasses a huge variety of activities: it could be a dance class at a church hall, a book group at a local library, cookery skills learnt in a community centre, a guided visit to a nature reserve or stately home, researching the National Gallery collection on-line, writing a Wikipedia entry or taking part in a volunteer project to record the living history of particular community.
Although informal learning can be a good way of developing work-related skills, this movement is made up of a kaleidoscope of part-time, non-vocational learning where the primary purpose isn‟t to gain a qualification. People participate for enjoyment and are driven by their desire for personal fulfilment or intellectual, creative and physical stimulation.
Such activity also contributes to the health and well-being of communities by building the confidence and resilience of the individuals involved. The social relationships that develop as a result of this informal learning can provide networks of support and solidarity. For the low-skilled and under-confident, informal learning can be an important stepping stone to further learning and a more skilled future.

For more information on The Transformation Fund please visit www.transformationfund.org.uk