Community learning and development inspections

HM Inspectors of Education (HMIE) evaluate and report on, the quality of Community Learning and Development (CLD) provision within local authorities, in line with The Requirements for Community Learning and Development (Scotland) Regulations 2013 and associated guidance for local authorities.

HM Inspectors implemented interim arrangements for academic year 2023-24, to support improvement and provide external assurance of the quality of CLD provision in Scotland.

HM Inspectors completed progress visits (PVs) in every local authority, in between September 2023 and June 2024. During PVs, HM Inspectors took account of the extent to which local authorities are fulfilling their statutory duties in relation to CLD. HM Inspectors evaluated the progress local authorities and their CLD partners are making to improve the quality of provision and services.

Evaluation of Community Learning and Development in Scotland

For further information please contact Sheila Brown HMI Lead Inspector CLD.

CLD inspection and review reports

All current and previous Community Learning and Development inspection reports are available on our website.

Improving life chances and empowering communities (PDF, 1.95MB)

Responsive, supportive and resilient communities

A report on the Community Learning and Development Plans 2021-24 - Planning for change in Scotland's communities and an aspect review of progress made in implementing the CLD Regulations, Community Learning and Development (CLD) Planning has also been published.

During 2015 and 2016, Education Scotland explored place-based inspections by trying out some other models of inspection and review. Reviews of Creative Places and Development Trusts are published on our website.

How good is our community learning and development?

A new draft HGIOCLD? Framework is now available. This framework will be used in future models of CLD inspection.