Adult Learning Programs of Perth brings free skills training and education to Stratford learners

Adult Learning Programs of Perth adult learning instructor Stephanie Shute is at the Local Community Food Centre in Stratford every Thursday, ready to assist learners 18 and older in the city.

Galen Simmons, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Adults in Stratford looking to upgrade their skills, return to school or gain confidence navigating today’s digital world have access to a wide range of free educational supports through Adult Learning Programs of Perth.

Funded by the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, Adult Learning Programs of Perth offers no-cost education and training for adults aged 18 and older across Perth County, including Stratford. Locally, programming is delivered from two Stratford locations: the Local Community Food Centre on Thursdays and the Centre for Education and Learning at Stratford Intermediate School on Tuesdays.

“We have two really accessible spaces in Stratford,” said adult learning instructor Stephanie Shute. “One is right on the bus route and connected to all the great things happening at the Local, and the other is downtown and a really good connection for people who are looking to work toward their secondary school credits.”

Programs offered in Stratford include digital skills training, essential reading, writing and math, preparation for the Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) and support for adults working toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) through the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process.

Adult Learning Programs of Perth also provides employment-related supports, including resumé building, workplace communication and digital tools used on the job, such as Microsoft Excel, Teams and Outlook.

“We really act as a connector,” said Nicole Carradine, adult learning coordinator with Adult Learning Programs of Perth. “When someone doesn’t quite know where to start, they can come to us. Maybe we’re where they start, or maybe we help point them in the right direction – whether that’s OSSD credits, CAEC preparation, employment skills or even apprenticeship pathways.”

One of the organization’s strengths is its flexible, learner-centred approach. Programs can be completed in person, online or through a blended model that combines both.

“The e-channel is a really good option for people,” Shute said. “Those are free online courses, and you don’t have to be tech-savvy to do them. At the same time, learners can still meet with us regularly, so they’re not on their own.”

Carradine said that support and accountability make a significant difference, especially for adults who may feel overwhelmed returning to learning.

“It’s nice to have someone there to help you through it,” she said. “You’re not just staring at a screen thinking, ‘I don’t even know where to start with this.’”

Adult Learning Programs of Perth is also working to expand workshop offerings in Stratford, including cybersecurity awareness, resumé building and newcomer-focused sessions that help people understand Canadian systems and workplace culture.

“It goes beyond just learning English,” Carradine said. “It’s about understanding how things work here – your rights as a tenant, how systems are set up, and where to go for help.”

The organization also works directly with employers in Stratford at no cost, offering customized training for employees to help improve retention and confidence in the workplace.

“There’s no cost to the employer or the employee,” Shute said. “We can go onsite during work hours or bring people in, depending on what works best.”

Carradine shared an example of a longtime factory employee who was able to transition into an office role after receiving Excel training through the program.

“She had been a reliable employee for years,” Carradine said. “She just needed the skills. We helped her build them, and she’s still in that role today.”

While Adult Learning Programs of Perth has been active in Stratford for years, staff say awareness dropped during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. They are now focused on reconnecting with the community.

“We just want people to feel comfortable reaching out,” Carradine said. “You don’t need a game plan. You just need to know you want to improve something in your life.”

For more information about Adult Learning Programs of Perth in Stratford, residents can visit the organization’s website at www.townofstmarys.com/recreation-community-culture/education/adult-learning/about-adult-learning/ or contact staff directly by emailing alearning@town.stmarys.on.ca or by calling 519-272-5174. Information about upcoming workshops and supports is also shared through community partners.