A project that helps Ashfield people multiply their confidence, opportunities, and employability through a programme of courses designed to increase numeracy skills has won an award.

Inspire’s Multiply courses at Kirkby Library and Learning Centre won the Education and Skills Partnership Award (Multiply Provider) at the Discover Ashfield Awards at Kirkby Leisure Centre.

The event celebrated residents and businesses that have gone above and beyond to support the community during the past year.

Inspire’s Multiply courses aim to help people brush up on their maths skills and become more confident with numbers. Funded by the government’s Skills for Life programme, Multiply has supported almost 1,000 residents in the area to develop their numeracy skills and grow their confidence in maths since it launched in 2022.

From work, household budgeting to helping kids with their homework, courses are designed for complete beginners to those wanting to build on their existing maths knowledge in a supportive and relaxed environment. There’s also opportunities for progression, with learners able to move on to recognised maths qualifications if they wish.

Inspire learning director Ian Bond said: “I am thrilled to accept this award on behalf of Inspire Adult Learning and our dedicated team. It really is great news and demonstrates the positive impact and success of our Multiply programme in Kirkby. We’re supporting people who may not otherwise have stepped outside their comfort zone, and to have reached as many people as we have since the programme started is a fantastic achievement.”