Urban Learning Academy

Project Information

In November 2022, the Urban Learning Academy was launched. This is an alliance of connected organisations enabling community-based adult learning, in accessible locations, empowering and transforming the lives of people who find it hardest to connect and engage. Over the last year, they have been working with individuals and organisations from across Exeter to bring the ULA into being.

The ULA has grown from the emerging four founding partners, CoLab, Exeter College, Exeter City council and Devon County Council to an agile, innovative alliance. They work with a values-led, aspirational approach to collaborative working, valuing difference; respect; reciprocity; honesty and ensuring all voices are being heard.

The ULA aims to create opportunities for learning and meaningful activity for adults the community. With a strong focus on belonging, wellbeing, recovery and rehabilitation, they advocate using learning as a tool for change, to support, enable and empower through our adult community learning offer.   

CoLab’s concept of learning as a tool for change is based on the understanding that learning takes place in a social context and the principle that individuals who are more aware, engaged and participating in society are more likely to be healthier, happier, and able to contribute positively to family and community life. 

The ULA is part of CoLab Learning’s offer with the aim to create safe spaces that enable adults from all walks for life to learn, explore, listen, develop skills, share knowledge and experience and bring about social cohesion through a tried and tested model of collaborative learning.

Community Spring/Summer Learning Programme 2024

Project Lead

Jo Cuthbertson

Links & Documents

Collaborating Partners