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. 

You can find more WEA cultural courses through our WEA Learn offer: view these courses here.

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Life Skills: make do and mend

This practical and confidence‑building course introduces you to the valuable life skill of making do and mending, helping you to repair, reuse, and extend the life of everyday items. Rooted in sustainability and self‑reliance, the course encourages you to save money, reduce waste, and feel more confident tackling simple repairs at home. Through hands‑on, tutor‑led activities, you will explore basic techniques such as simple sewing repairs, mending clothes, replacing buttons, fixing small tears, and adapting items for reuse. Sessions are relaxed and supportive, with clear demonstrations and plenty of time to practise skills at an individual pace. No previous experience is required, and all activities are suitable for beginners. Alongside practical skills, the course focuses on developing confidence and independence. You are encouraged to problem‑solve, try new techniques, and share ideas with others in the group. Making and repairing items provides a strong sense of achievement, helping learners build self‑esteem and trust in your abilities. The course also promotes wellbeing and sustainability, offering a mindful and rewarding learning experience. Working with your hands can be calming and enjoyable, while learning to repair rather than replace supports more environmentally friendly habits. Group learning helps reduce isolation and builds positive social connections in a friendly and inclusive environment. By the end of the course, you will have gained practical mending skill

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 24/06/2026 -
Wed 15/07/2026
Times:
10:00am - 1:00pm
Duration:
4 sessions
Location:
Clare House Classroom 1
31 Wells Street
Scunthorpe
DN15 6HL
Tutor:
Helen Anglum
Course code:
Q00027903
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Funding available - £96.00

Leaf, Lore & Legend II

Leaf, Lore & Legend II explores the profound relationship between people and the diverse flora of the British landscape. Touching on the origins of the Ogham alphabet, which associates letters with trees, meanings, and spiritual qualities, the course considers a number of plants associated with its characters, and the myths and legends that surround them. Combining ecology, history, and fable, the talk offers a holistic understanding of trees, shrubs, and plants in the UK and their deep roots in the British landscape.

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 01/07/2026 -
Wed 01/07/2026
Times:
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Billericay Reading Rooms (Billericay)
73 High Street
Billericay
CM12 9AS
Tutor:
Guest Speaker
Course code:
Q00028255
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Funding available - £16.00

Gardening: Gardening for Wellbeing

This course is funded by the Department for Education and only open to residents living in non devolved authorities. This course helps you explore how gardening can support your health and wellbeing. You can join if you have completed the Foundations in Gardening course, but you are also welcome if you are new to gardening. No experience is needed. You will take part in practical activities such as planting seeds, caring for plants, and looking after garden spaces or containers. You will learn how gardening can help with relaxation, mindfulness, and gentle physical activity. You will also explore how gardening supports the environment, including planting for wildlife and using sustainable gardening practices. Each session is supportive and relaxed, with step-by-step guidance. You will have chances to work with others, share ideas, and enjoy being outdoors. By the end of the course, you will have developed gardening skills that support your wellbeing and confidence. You may also feel ready to continue learning through other gardening or environmental courses.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 04/08/2026 -
Thu 06/08/2026
Times:
10:00am - 2:00pm
Duration:
3 sessions
Location:
Whitehawk
Whitehawk Road
Brighton and Hove
BN2 5NS
Tutor:
Jane Perrin
Course code:
Q00027510
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Funding available - £96.00

Foundations in Gardening

This course is funded by the Department for Education and only open to residents living in non devolved authorities. This welcoming course is designed for you if you are new to learning, returning to learning, or would simply like to try gardening in a relaxed and supportive environment. No previous experience is needed. The course focuses on simple, practical activities that help you build confidence while developing useful gardening skills. During the course, you will explore the basics of gardening and learn how plants grow. You will take part in hands-on activities such as planting seeds, caring for plants, watering, and preparing soil. You will also be introduced to different types of plants, including flowers, herbs, and vegetables that you can grow at home or in small spaces. You will learn about common gardening tools and how to use them safely. The course also explores how gardening connects to caring for the environment, including simple ideas for growing sustainably and supporting nature. Sessions are practical, friendly, and designed to support you step by step. You will have the opportunity to work with others, share ideas, and enjoy spending time outdoors. By the end of the course, you will have a basic understanding of gardening and the confidence to grow plants at home, in containers, or in a community space. You may also choose to progress to further courses in gardening, green skills, or environmental learning.

Course Information

Dates:
Fri 27/11/2026 -
Fri 12/02/2027
Times:
12:30pm - 3:00pm
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
Whitehawk
Whitehawk Road
Brighton and Hove
BN2 5NS
Tutor:
Jane Perrin
Course code:
Q00027506
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Funding available - £192.00