Employment Minister Priti Patel said: “The old benefits system we inherited was broken, trapping the very people it was meant to help.
“Our welfare reforms are transforming the lives of some of the poorest people in our communities. We are making sure those who are unemployed have the right skills for their next job, and that they can have a career.
“As part of our one nation government, we want everyone to succeed and achieve their full potential, and through our reforms we are doing just that.”
Tom Stannard, deputy chief executive of adult learning body Niace, told the Times Educational Supplement that the growth was “encouraging”.
Mr Stannard said: “Returning to learning as an adult will build the confidence they need to start or restart their careers.
“We know that once people start they can thrive and achieve beyond what they ever thought was possible, delivering substantial socio-economic benefits.”
However, Mr Stannard expressed concern over “significant” cuts to further education provision, would mean fewer learning opportunities.