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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History: Who will rid me of this troublesome priest? Henry II, Eleanor Aquitaine and Thomas Beckett

Thomas Becket and Henry II— The struggle for supremacy between two powerful, stubborn men, Archbishop and King. This course explores the relationship between Becket and Henry and sets it in its historical context. Rivalries between father and sons, brother against brother, wife against husband. The course will consider the critical role played by Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine, who history has blamed for the rebellion of her sons against their father, the King. In addition, we will consider the part played by Henry and Eleanor’s sons, Henry the Young King, Richard, Geoffrey and John.
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Course Information

Dates:
Mon 16/09/2024 -
Mon 21/10/2024
Times:
9:30am - 11:30am
Duration:
6 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Michael Long
Course code:
Q00017705
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £44.40

History: Beginners History

The term will begin with an analysis of Eastern Europe and the Near East at the beginning of the 11th century, exploring the steps towards a climate that would produce the first crusade. In particular, we will examine the condition and policies of the Byzantine Empire and why its position would be so critical in the events which unfolded later, along with the conquests and upheavals of the Seljuk Turks, leading to the critical battle of Manzikert. Thereafter, we will look at how developments in Western Europe would then lead to the circumstances and outcomes of the first crusade.
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Course Information

Dates:
Mon 16/09/2024 -
Mon 02/12/2024
Times:
7:15pm - 9:15pm
Duration:
12 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Gary Slator
Course code:
Q00015927
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £88.80

History: Byzantium, the Great Age

How did the Roman Empire survive the great challenges it faced during the later 8th century? We will examine how the later reign of Konstantine V and then his heirs not only oversaw an even stricter type of iconoclasm, but also how they brought about other key developments within mediaeval Roman society. We will also explore how the struggle against the Abbasid Caliphate continued to evolve. Finally, we will look at the emergence of Empress Eirene during the later years of the eighth century, and how she maintained her grip on power, despite much internal opposition.
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Course Information

Dates:
Mon 16/09/2024 -
Mon 09/12/2024
Times:
11:45am - 1:45pm
Duration:
12 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Gary Slator
Course code:
Q00015932
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £100.80

Care 2: Introduction to emotional freedom techniques

All our Care2 courses are completely free for unpaid carers (or those who have previously been carers). You do not need to receive a carer's allowance to qualify. If you are unsure, please contact our call centre advisors who will be able to assist you. If you suffer from stress, physical or emotional trauma, this may well be the course for you. This short non-accredited course will guide you through how you can apply Emotional freedom techniques (EFT) as a complementary treatment to support you in dealing with physical pain and emotional distress. It is also referred to as tapping or psychological acupressure. People who use this technique believe tapping the body can create a balance in your energy system and treat pain. This course offers interactive discussion and easy to learn practical techniques that millions of people use every day. With regular practice you may be surprised at how you can make a difference to your health and wellbeing.
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Course Information

Dates:
Mon 16/09/2024 -
Mon 16/09/2024
Times:
1:00pm - 2:30pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Georgia Daniel
Course code:
Q00018560
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee:
Free

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Membership Information

Duration:
12 months
Fee:
£15

Care 2: Introduction to seated yoga

All our Care2 courses are completely free for unpaid carers (or those who have previously been carers). You do not need to receive a carer's allowance to qualify. If you are unsure, please contact our call centre advisors who will be able to assist you. This seated yoga is a progression for some and new for others. Suitable for all levels and taught by Georgia an experienced yoga teacher, who offers a range of difficulties to suit everybody. During this relaxed and friendly class, you will learn accessible yoga postures that can be done from the comfort of your own chair. We will cover breath work and body alignment. This class will strengthen your body, increase your flexibility and prepare you for your day by offering a meditation at the end of every session. You will learn how you can benefit from a regular yoga practice that incorporates hand mudras. All you need to do is prepare a space at home where you will not be disturbed, have a comfortable chair with back support and wear comfortable clothing. Look forwards to seeing you there!
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Course Information

Dates:
Mon 16/09/2024 -
Mon 16/09/2024
Times:
9:00am - 10:30am
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Georgia Daniel
Course code:
Q00018561
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee:
Free

History: The English Renaissance

This course will introduce a fascinating period of English history, during which poetry, prose and the arts produced some of the touchstones of British culture. We will explore a range of poetry including Thomas Wyatt’s, love poetry, Ralegh’s verse, Edmund Spenser’s homage to Elizabeth I, John Donne’s astonishing poems of love and divinity, and Milton’s early poems; playwrights, Shakespeare and Marlowe, and prose writers such as Tyndale and his translations from the Bible, Cranmer’s Book of Common Prayer and extracts from the King James’ Bible. Additional context for the period will be provided from paintings, contemporary documents and letters. All texts will be provided on Canvas.
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Course Information

Dates:
Tue 17/09/2024 -
Tue 26/11/2024
Times:
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Duration:
11 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Stephen Smith
Course code:
Q00017453
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
4 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £74.00

History: Highlights of Saxon Archaeology

Why was Britain's genetic make-up radically changed between 500 and 800 AD/CE? Were the newcomers environmental refugees, pagan plunderers, invaders or missionaries? Who were these new arrivals and what were they doing over here? This course will use recent information on sites, finds and their interpretation to shed new light on Anglo-Saxon Age archaeology in Britain. How and why the migrations took place will be illustrated using new (since 1980) excavation evidence, metal detecting finds, scientific analysis and aerial remote sensing data.
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Course Information

Dates:
Tue 17/09/2024 -
Tue 19/11/2024
Times:
10:30am - 12:30pm
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
The Salvation Army Church & Community Ce
13 Church Street
Louth
LN11 9BS
Tutor:
Simon Tomson
Course code:
Q00011695
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
7 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £84.00

Care 2: Introduction to Chakras

All our Care2 courses are completely free for unpaid carers (or those who have previously been carers). You do not need to receive a carer's allowance to qualify. If you are unsure, please contact our call centre advisors who will be able to assist you. Join me on this relaxed and informative course where we will look at the intriguing world of Chakras. Week by week we will explore the crown, third eye, throat, heart, solar plexus, sacral and root chakra. This course is designed to elevate your awareness and knowledge of how you can use holistic therapy to enhance your life and wellbeing. We will cover both the practical and theoretical application of how to work with these amazing energy centres. Chakra centres correspond to each nerve bundle and the major organs of the body. With a deeper understanding of how each one relates to our emotions, health and general wellbeing it is possible to live a more balanced and happier lifestyle. Each chakra has its own unique profile, including the right food to eat, mantra to use, emotional expression, vibration and colour. You will learn a range of ways of how we can help balance the chakras through a deeper understanding of this fascinating subject. You will not need to purchase anything for this course and no prior knowledge is needed. We will also cover aromatherapy oils, crystals, the sound mantras and the associated body part that links in with this subject.
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Course Information

Dates:
Tue 17/09/2024 -
Tue 17/09/2024
Times:
11:00am - 12:30pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Georgia Daniel
Course code:
Q00018556
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £5.55

Astronomy: Astronomy in the Autumn

Longer, darker evenings of Autumn provide the opportunity to familiarise yourself with the night sky. We will concentrate on some of the objects (stars and planets) that can be seen over the autumn with the unaided eye. You will be given guidance on how to observe them. Astronomy is a very dynamic subject, and we will consider news stories of note. The course is for beginners/those with some experience and targetted observing challenges will be set. You will be encouraged to undertake independent research (via ‘mini-projects’) and, if you are willing, share with class members. Weekly knowledge quizzes will be set so that you can see your progress.
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Course Information

Dates:
Thu 19/09/2024 -
Thu 28/11/2024
Times:
7:00pm - 8:30pm
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Ann Bonell
Course code:
Q00017670
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
5 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £55.50

History: British History through the lives of 10 women

This 10-week course 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:
Thu 19/09/2024 -
Thu 05/12/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
St John's United Reform Church Orpington
Lynwood Grove
Orpington
BR6 0BG
Tutor:
Kate Antoniou
Course code:
Q00017272
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
8 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £84.00