Adult Education Policy Framework

Overview & Synopsis

British Columbia (BC) has a rich history of accessible adult education programs. In recent years, these programs have undergone significant changes. In August 2017, a tuition-free policy for domestic students in Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English Language Learning (ELL) programs at public post-secondary institutions (PPSIs) was implemented. The elimination of tuition fees is aimed at improving access, allowing more students to gain the required skills to pursue their personal, education, training and employment goals. This framework focuses specifically on ABE, Adult Special Education (ASE) and ELL for domestic students in PPSIs. These programs are part of a suite of Adult Education (also known as developmental) programs that are delivered by 18 PPSIs across the province. These programs are focused on improving literacy, numeracy, English language skills, upgrading for further education, and job-ready skills. More than 20,000 students enrol in Adult Education programs at PPSIs each year before and/or while they enrol in and complete high school, career training and post-secondary programs. Approximately 60 school districts also deliver ABE programs through their Continuing Education centres across the province. Within school districts, adult students have a choice of completing the regular BC Certificate of Graduation, or the BC Adult Graduation Diploma (BCAGD), which has the same foundational course requirements but requires fewer electives. While tuition-free ABE is also available at school districts, this policy framework focuses primarily on the public post-secondary system that delivers Adult Education programs in BC. Policies in this framework identify whether they apply to ABE, ASE and/or ELL. This framework does not apply to federally funded ELL programs.