Learning about the world around us

Here at the WEA we offer a huge range of humanities and science courses, with something for everyone.  

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If you’re interested in the natural world, our geography and environment courses are the perfect choice. Our packed curriculum explores some of the biggest issues facing society, such as climate change and the fight against the destruction of some of Earth’s most precious resources. The option to learn in person or online means that our geography courses can whisk you away to a far-flung corner of the globe, all without you ever having to leave your own home. 

Studying a science

If you choose to take one of our psychology courses you’ll be immersed in the study of the human mind. With options to learn about memory and identity, you’ll get the chance to explore and debate some of the most famous psychological experiments.  

There’s also Sociology too, a subject that focuses on human behaviour, interaction, and relationships. If you’d like to explore some of the biggest questions in life, then our philosophy courses are for you. Small class sizes mean that you’ll get to discuss and debate in a supportive environment, all with an experienced tutor on hand.  

Attend a Humanities and Science course near you  

Whether you choose to learn from the comfort of your own home or opted for face-to-face learning at a local community venue, you’ll be taught by a talented tutor who is an expert in their subject. Our learning experience sets us apart from other providers, with learners regularly highlighting the difference that an encouraging environment makes. 

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Nature, Ecology & Permaculture: Essex Rock- Geology Beneath the Landscape

This geology-based course will centre on the dynamic processes involved in the creation of different rocks and how the planet constantly recycles these. We will discuss: the organic recycling interface of soil; human use of geology with examples in surrounding buildings, notably church walls which reveal local geology; the meaning of landscape in this dynamic scene.

Course Information

Dates:
Thu 02/05/2024 -
Thu 16/05/2024
Times:
10:30am - 12:30pm
Duration:
3 sessions
Location:
St John the Baptist Church Meeting Room
55 Main Road
Danbury
CM3 4NG
Tutor:
Guest Speaker
Course code:
Q00014237
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £28.50

History: Local History

This course will be delivered through a combination of lectures, discussions, field trips, research projects, and presentations. Participants will have access to historical sources, archives, and local heritage sites for research and exploration. Assignments will include research papers, oral history interviews, presentations, and reflective essays. Participants will explore key events, themes, and movements that have shaped the local community and gain insight into the cultural, social, and economic development of the local area over time.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 07/05/2024 -
Tue 16/07/2024
Times:
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Duration:
8 sessions
Location:
Donnison School (Sunderland)
The Donnison School Buildings
Church Walk
Sunderland
SR1 2BJ
Tutor:
Sharon Vincent
Course code:
Q00014650
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £92.40

Gardening Practical: Grow your own Food & Flowers

Do you enjoy the outdoors? Would you like to learn how to grow your own food and flowers? Join us in the community gardens and polytunnel at Easington Lane Community Access Point and learn how to tend and care for a flower or vegetable garden. Our tutor will guide you through the basic steps of planting. Whether you want to support your local community by growing crops to share or learn how to grow food for your own family (on a windowsill or garden), this hands-on course is a great place to start.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 07/05/2024 -
Tue 25/06/2024
Times:
10:00am - 12:00pm
Duration:
7 sessions
Location:
Easington Lane Community Access Point
Easington Lane
Houghton - le- Spring
DH5 0LE
Tutor:
Jayne Clark
Course code:
Q00015393
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee:
Free

Psychology: Exploring the Psychologies of Freud, Jung and Others

Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung and those that followed them have, in their very different ways, changed the way we think about ourselves, morality, life and love. This course will also look at some of the most influential ideas from Alfred Adler, Eric Erickson, Wilhelm Reich, Viktor Frankl and Erich Fromm. All have influenced our view of human nature, even if we don’t realise it. Expect informed presentations; lively discussions and online; lots of background materials on Canvas, controversy, lively discussion, some outrageous ideas and a touch of humour. This is an introductory course, and no previous experience of Psychology is needed.

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 08/05/2024 -
Wed 10/07/2024
Times:
2:30pm - 4:30pm
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Kevin Walker
Course code:
Q00009281
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
0 places remaining
Status:
Waiting list
Fee range
Free to £74.00

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For just £15 a year, you can:

  • Join our popular, award-winning weekly lecture series,
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Just add us to your basket to sign up today!

Membership Information

Duration:
12 months
Fee:
WEA Membership

Personal Development: A Peek at the Peak District

During this single session the tutor will offer an overview of the area of England that we know as the Peak District. After a short introduction to the geology we will gain an understanding of the landscape contrasts between the White Peak and the Dark Peak. This leads naturally to a consideration of the flora, fauna and cultural history of Britain’s first national park. By the end of this session you will be able to summarise main geological and historical features of the Peak District National Park. This class will take place in a fun, friendly and supportive online environment.

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 08/05/2024 -
Wed 08/05/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Alastair Clark
Course code:
Q00014147
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
9 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £7.40

Gardening Practical: Spring Time Organic Gardening Toolkit

An uplifting opportunity to work with natures seasons and reap the benefits of spending time in the great out of doors doing something meaningful and fun! These course will give you the opportunity to gain practical experience in organic food growing and regenerative farming Delivered by our experienced tutor, and hosted at the inspiring Bosavern Community Farm , this course is sure to empower and inspire Suitable for beginner and improvers, and all are welcome to join all three ‘Spring and Summer Toolkits’ courses or just choose some of them.

Course Information

Dates:
Thu 09/05/2024 -
Thu 16/05/2024
Times:
10:00am - 4:00pm
Duration:
2 sessions
Location:
Bosavern Community Farm (St Just)
St Just
St Just
TR19 7RD
Tutor:
Jodie Tellam
Course code:
Q00013516
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
6 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £50.40

History: Intermediate- The Viking Age

The Vikings were the terror of western Europe in the 9th Century and remain one of the most striking and enduring topics in history. We will examine how Anglo-Saxon England almost collapsed under the weight of the Viking threat; making a detailed exploration of the life and times of Anglo-Saxon England and the other realms of the British Isles as the former Mercian hegemony was lost and as they faced the onslaught of the Vikings. In particular, we will consider what may have motivated the Norsemen, how they achieved their success, and how the Saxon kingdoms responded to the crisis.

Course Information

Dates:
Fri 10/05/2024 -
Fri 19/07/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
11 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Gary Slator
Course code:
Q00014240
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £81.40

Archaeology: Extraordinary Excavations

Find out about some of the most famous archaeological excavations from around the world in this day course, we will discuss what made these sites so important and consider some of the methods used by the archaeologists working on the site. We will also draw evidence from some excavations that may be not so famous for a variety of reasons but contribute a wealth of evidence to support our understanding of the past. In addition to that, this course will highlight some of the techniques used following the excavation, when examining the artefacts recovered. It will also ensure that you are aware of where it is possible to find further resources linked to what has been studied.

Course Information

Dates:
Sat 11/05/2024 -
Sat 11/05/2024
Times:
10:00am - 12:00pm
Duration:
2 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Jo Shoebridge
Course code:
Q00014732
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £18.50

Care 2: Visit Harewood House, Yorkshire

This course is for carers, former carers and the cared for. Come along and find out about Harewood House all from the comfort of your own home! On this course, we will take a look at Harewood House and explore its rich history.

Course Information

Dates:
Mon 13/05/2024 -
Mon 13/05/2024
Times:
11:00am - 12:30pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Alison Warren
Course code:
Q00014604
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available

History: Berlin 1814-1914

An exploration of the history of Berlin in the 19th century from the end of the Napoleonic Wars to the First World War. We will also look at how Berlin grew in importance over preceding centuries. The course will cover major changes in the layout of the city and the growth of the railways which allowed industrial expansion, and how the city was "modernised" in other ways, with many new building projects, leading it to be compared to an American city at the end of the century.

Course Information

Dates:
Mon 13/05/2024 -
Mon 03/06/2024
Times:
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Duration:
3 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
David Price
Course code:
Q00012921
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £22.20