Delve into history

Explore the events of the past, and how they’ve shaped the world we live in today. Immerse yourself in different eras, marvel at historic achievements, and examine how different things could have been.  

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All of our courses are designed to help develop your skills in historical research and analysis, encouraging you to look beyond the surface of key historical moments. From the history of King Arthur to World War I and II, you’ll develop a better understanding of key historic customs, beliefs, and ways of life.   

Whether you consider yourself a history buff with decades of experience, or someone just starting out that wants to learn more, you can choose from a wide selection of topics.   

Attend a WEA history course near you  

A variety of our history courses are taught in-person or are delivered online - it all depends on what suits your needs best. From the comfort of your own home to a space in your local community. Whichever option you choose, you’ll be taught by a talented tutor who is vastly experienced.   

The support you’ll receive on our history courses  

They'll help you develop an understanding that goes beyond just what's on the surface, all within a friendly and encouraging environment that ensures you attend each session with the excitement to learn.   

It’s our learning experience that sets us apart too, with many of those attending our courses going on to achieve incredible things. You’ll learn at a pace that’s comfortable for you too, with a friendly supportive tutor on hand to answer any questions you might have. 

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History: Brexit - A history of our relationship with the EU

This course explores history of Britain's relationship with the European Union, from its inception to the present day. The course will cover key events, policies, and political figures that have shaped this relationship, culminating in the Brexit referendum and its aftermath. We will be looking in a comprehensive way at our attitude to the EU from the earliest days, focusing on the factors which led to our eventual entry and navigate through the complex history of Britain’s relationship with the EU, focusing on key events, policies, and political dynamics leading to Brexit and beyond.
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Course Information

Dates:
Tue 07/01/2025 -
Tue 18/03/2025
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Kate Antoniou
Course code:
Q00017660
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
7 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £80.00

History: Intermediate History

In this term, we begin by considering the challenges faced by young King Aethelred at the beginning of his reign, particularly his difficulties with the growing Viking threat. We will also look at the rise of a unified Kingdom of Denmark, and examine the motives and factors which created it. We will then analyse the successive policies by which Aethelred attempted to curb the Viking threat, ultimately only to result in his own overthrow. After that, we will then go on to analyse the emergence of King Cnut and his maritime empire, and the nature of Cnut’s rule in England.
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Course Information

Dates:
Tue 07/01/2025 -
Tue 25/03/2025
Times:
11:45am - 1:45pm
Duration:
12 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Gary Slator
Course code:
Q00016036
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
9 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £88.80

History: British History Through the Lives of 10 Women

This 10-week course is a re - run of the Autumn course and offers a unique exploration of British history by examining the lives and contributions of ten remarkable women who left indelible marks on society, culture, and politics. From ancient warriors to pioneering scientists and influential writers, each woman represents a distinct era in British history, shedding light on the struggles, achievements, and societal changes of their times. Throughout the course, we will delve into the lives of these extraordinary women, analysing their impact on British society and their enduring legacies. By studying their stories, learners will gain a deeper understanding of key historical events, social movements, and cultural shifts that have shaped the fabric of Britain.
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Course Information

Dates:
Tue 07/01/2025 -
Tue 18/03/2025
Times:
10:00am - 12:00pm
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Kate Antoniou
Course code:
Q00019208
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
4 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £74.00

History: English canals - An advanced study

As built, canals linked towns and cities with the remote corners of the English countryside. Built largely to carry coal to fuel the Industrial Revelation, they are used today for pleasure purposes. Canals offer the opportunity to improve health and wellbeing, whether walking along the towpath or travelling along in a barge. Come and join this illustrated course where you will develop your historical / technical skills by finding and exploring a number of sources about the canals. Your tutor will guide you towards sources which provide information on the physical design of your local canal, the industry it was built to serve and the individuals who worked tirelessly to make a living. There will be a study of the Trent & Mersey, Peak Forest and Somersetshire Coal Canals, together with a review of the impact on the canals of the Napoleonic War. The course will look at some of the features of canals, such as Bridges, Tunnels, Aqueducts, Reservoirs, Gauging Docks, Weighing Machines, Gauging Stations and Winding Holes. This course is suitable for learners with a previous knowledge of the subject To note down key points, it is suggested that you bring a notebook.
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Course Information

Dates:
Tue 07/01/2025 -
Tue 11/02/2025
Times:
2:00pm - 3:30pm
Duration:
6 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Michael Turner
Course code:
Q00016933
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £33.30

WEA Membership

For just £15 a year, you can:

  • Join our popular, award-winning weekly lecture series,
  • Access an archive of over 100 past lectures,
  • Get priority online and phone booking for autumn courses (England only),
  • Receive our Highway magazine and access back issues,
  • Attend our members’ annual conference.

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Membership Information

Duration:
12 months
Fee:
£15

History: Cookery through the ages

Discover the changes in our food with time: how it was cooked, how it was eaten, where it came from, and how it affected our society and language, from the early Stone Age to this century, with an emphasis on British history. Find out which of our table manners date back to the Middle Ages, and how some of the most up-to-date and expensive restaurants are re-inventing Stone Age techniques; what advice from the fourteenth century still holds good today, and which most certainly does not. Each session will include some adapted recipes that you may (or may not) wish to try for yourself.
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Course Information

Dates:
Tue 07/01/2025 -
Tue 25/02/2025
Times:
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Duration:
8 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Jane Williams
Course code:
Q00019282
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £59.20

History: Journey along the Silk Road

Embark on a fascinating journey through time and space as we unravel the mysteries and marvels of the Silk Road. This 10-week course offers a comprehensive exploration of one of the most significant trade routes in history, tracing its origins, evolution, and enduring legacy. From the bustling marketplaces of ancient cities to the cross-cultural exchanges that shaped empires, we will delve into the rich tapestry of cultures, economies, and ideas that flourished along this ancient network of trade routes. · This course will offer a rich interdisciplinary exploration of the Silk Road, drawing on historical texts, archaeological evidence, visual media, and discussion to deepen understanding of its pivotal influence in world history.
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Course Information

Dates:
Wed 08/01/2025 -
Wed 19/03/2025
Times:
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Kate Antoniou
Course code:
Q00017585
How you'll learn:
Online
Status:
Waiting list
Fee range
Free to £74.00

History: Why Do We Say That?

Join this engaging course that delves into the captivating history and evolution of idioms, expressions, and accents in (British) English. Explore both newer and older accents while uncovering the origins of everyday idioms and literary expressions. The course will also look at slang and secret languages that have evolved over time. This is course is open to beginners and those with prior knowledge of the subject. Taking place online, over the course of six weeks, with access to presentations and discussions even after each session.
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Course Information

Dates:
Wed 08/01/2025 -
Wed 12/02/2025
Times:
11:00am - 1:00pm
Duration:
6 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Janet Wilson
Course code:
Q00009336
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
6 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £40.80

History: Role of political cartoons in the 20th century

Join us for this course which will review historical events, from long ago up until recent years and link them with how newspaper and magazine cartoons reflected attitudes and controversies of that time. This beginner course will primarily focus on the historical context and political impacts of their cartoons rather than the artistic techniques but through that analysis students will gain a deeper understanding of the role of political cartoons in the 20th century.
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Course Information

Dates:
Wed 08/01/2025 -
Wed 22/01/2025
Times:
11:00am - 1:00pm
Duration:
3 sessions
Location:
St Lukes Church Hall (Tiptree)
66 Church Road
Tiptree
CO5 0SU
Tutor:
Guest Speaker
Course code:
Q00018064
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £25.20

History: Samuel Pepys – Plague, Fire and Scandal

This 10-week course explores the life and times of Samuel Pepys, focusing on his diaries that provide an unparalleled view of 17th-century England. Through Pepys’ meticulous documentation, we will delve into the reign of Charles II, the devastation of the Great Plague and the Great Fire of London, and everyday life during the Restoration period. Including the numerous scandals at court and Pepys’s own behaviour! This course will offer insights into the personal, social, and political landscapes of the time, revealing how one man's observations can illuminate an entire era marked by dramatic events and profound changes.
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Course Information

Dates:
Wed 08/01/2025 -
Wed 19/03/2025
Times:
10:00am - 12:00pm
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Kate Antoniou
Course code:
Q00018506
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £80.00

History, Napoleon: Citizen to Emperor

Explore the life and legacy of Napoleon Bonaparte with our History: Napoleon: Citizen to Emperor course. Learn about his rise to power, military campaigns, and impact on European history. Ideal for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in learning about one of history's most influential figures.
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Course Information

Dates:
Wed 08/01/2025 -
Wed 19/03/2025
Times:
11:30am - 1:30pm
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
Barking Enterprise Centre CIC (Barking)
50 Cambridge Road
Barking
IG11 8FG
Tutor:
Amy Miller
Course code:
Q00017375
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £100.00