"For most children and learners, things are getting better." This is an important and encouraging message from Ofsted Chief Inspector Christine Gilbert's Annual Report for 2007/08, and one to hang on to. However, it is not the whole story. From a social justice perspective it is also important to note for whom this is not the case. The Chief Inspector is blunt: "If you are poor, you are more likely to receive poor services: disadvantage compounds disadvantage." The full report runs to 138 pages--Ofsted's remit is extensive. A commentary surveying the territory is followed by key findings, 13 sections on sectors/aspects of the remit, three thematic chapters, a bibliography and appendices. For those seeking a swift overview, a useful summary of 25 pages is also available. This article aims to draw out from the report the points of particular relevance to those with an interest in adult learning. The "good news" headlines are that the trend of improvement in colleges of further education (FE) continues, with an increased proportion of good or outstanding; and that many providers in the broad adult learning sector are successfully meeting the needs of learners who have found it difficult to engage in learning at or beyond school, or to move on to sustainable employment.