Power is being devolved to England’s regions, and for the first time elected Mayors and combined authorities are setting policy and allocating spending on Adult Education. What should their main aims be? How can they make sure a rich educational offering is available to all adults – including those in excluded and “left behind” communities? What other problems do they face?

The Centenary Commission on Adult Education has made important recommendations on why adult education matters and on how it should be renewed. At this seminar, leading figures from regional combined authorities will discuss their ideas and plans with commission members and other experts.

The webinar, chaired by former House of Commons Speaker John Bercow, will discuss the challenges and opportunities available. The panel will include:

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester Region

Jamie Driscoll, Mayor of the North of Tyne Region

Julie Nugent, Director of Skills and Productivity, West Midlands Combined Authority

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire

Jules Pipe, Deputy Mayor of London

Dame Helen Ghosh, Chair of the Centenary Commission on Adult Education