The mayor of London has increased funding to support adults improve their English and maths skills by £2.7 million, it has been announced today.

Sadiq Khan has also confirmed that he will give London’s further education providers greater flexibility to train their staff to better support learners with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

In January, £306 million was devolved to the Greater London Authority in adult education budget (AEB) funding. In September, Mr Khan called for the post-16 and non-levy apprenticeship funds to also be devolved. 

Background: Sadiq Khan: Extend skills devolution for London

More: £630m in adult education funds handed to mayors

Opinion: Devolution will widen skills gap, principal warns

Mr Khan said: “We’re determined to use all the power and resources at our disposal to help create the workforce of the future – and that means making sure all Londoners have the opportunity to gain skills and make the most of their potential.

“A good level of English and maths is critical to improving someone’s life chances – but for too long funding levels haven’t matched what’s needed to help Londoners improve their basic skills. By increasing funding, providers across the capital can boost participation and achievement.”