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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Care 2: Visit The Royal Pavilion at Brighton

A course for carers, former carers and the cared for, join us to look at the Royal Pavilion at Brighton and explore its fascinating history. This course is a great way to learn something new form the comfort of your own home. Feel free to contribute to the class and get involved in the interesting discussions.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 09/07/2024 -
Tue 09/07/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 3:30pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Alison Warren
Course code:
Q00011053
How you'll learn:
Online
Status:
Waiting list

Philosophy: Philosophy behind The Headlines (Free London Taster)

This taster session in Philosophy, will briefly introduce the principal ideas of a selection of philosophers and apply these to the discussion of the news headlines and the controversies that lie behind them. The course will foster an understanding of ethical and philosophical dimensions to contemporary issues. This class will encourage discussion and sharing of ideas about current affairs and will involve reflecting on how to use philosophy to engage with current affairs a part of this discussion. You will be encouraged to use critical thinking and analytical skills as the role of Philosophy is looked at when analysing the news.

Course Information

Dates:
Thu 11/07/2024 -
Thu 11/07/2024
Times:
6:00pm - 9:00pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Daniel Williams
Course code:
Q00017175
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available

Care 2: Visit Chatsworth House, Derbyshire

Come along and explore beautiful Chatsworth House, all from the comfort of your home! You will find out about this historic building and explore its rich history. This is a course for carers, former carers and the cared for, and is great chance to learn something new and be a part of an interesting discussion.

Course Information

Dates:
Mon 15/07/2024 -
Mon 15/07/2024
Times:
11:00am - 12:30pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Alison Warren
Course code:
Q00014603
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
9 places remaining
Status:
Available

Windowsill Gardening (Multiply West Sussex)

*Please note - this course is exclusively for residents of West Sussex. If you do not live in a West Sussex postcode area, please do not apply for this course - thanks for your understanding* On this course we are going to sow some seeds to grow a selection of edible plants: herbs and vegetables on a windowsill. The session is delivered in real time, so you can sow seeds along with me asking questions as we go. A list of suggested resources will be on Canvas before the course begins so you can go shopping. We will explore the limitations of windowsill growing, and the advantages, particularly in relation to cost. We shall see which windowsill crops are economically worth growing, and which aren't! I will cover onward care and harvesting, and any questions will be welcome, as will sharing your own experiences - good and bad!

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 16/07/2024 -
Tue 16/07/2024
Times:
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Catherine Wilcock
Course code:
Q00015976
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee:
Free

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.

Just add us to your basket to sign up today!

Membership Information

Duration:
12 months
Fee:
WEA Membership

History: Mythology of the Summer Sky

Ever looked up at the night sky, or the signs of the zodiac, and wondered how the constellations got their names? Why anyone would think those random dots were “obviously” a picture of some strange creature? Or what the stories are behind them? This one-session course picks out some of them that are appropriate to the time of year, and shows why they were important, what their myths are, and how the stories fit together. This is the time when the Perseid meteor shower is at its best, so we’ll look at the story behind Perseus, and his family: Andromeda, Cassiopeia, Pegasus, and a few less well-known. Then we go on to the Summer Triangle of the Swan, the Eagle, and the Lyre. There’s also Capricorn, the half-fish, half-goat, and many more. (57)

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 17/07/2024 -
Wed 17/07/2024
Times:
10:00am - 11:30am
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Jane Williams
Course code:
Q00014312
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
8 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £5.55

History: King Arthur, the history and the myth

This course delves into the myths, legends, and historical theories surrounding Britain's beloved King Arthur, exploring his family, friends, and foes. It aims to distinguish between fact and fiction, recognizing the influence of biases in historical accounts and the speculative nature of much of the Arthurian narrative. Arthur's role as a tool for propaganda is examined, drawing on diverse sources including ancient writings, literature, fiction, and film, supplemented by a brief exploration of archaeology. Offering participants insight into the enduring appeal and manipulation of Arthurian legend throughout history.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 23/07/2024 -
Tue 23/07/2024
Times:
10:00am - 12:00pm
Duration:
2 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Jane Williams
Course code:
Q00017511
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
6 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £12.00

History: History of English

This course is for anyone with an interest in history and the English Language. It will introduce you to four historical varieties of English and trace the development of English from a cluster of Germanic dialects to one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. The course is open to beginners or people who may have studied the history of English before. It will take place online, over the course of six weeks and presentations and discussions will be readily available after each session.

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 04/09/2024 -
Wed 09/10/2024
Times:
11:00am - 1:00pm
Duration:
6 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Janet Wilson
Course code:
Q00009333
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £40.80

History: Oh No, not another election!' - A history of struggle for votes for all

Many of us are unenthusiastic in the run up and aftermath of a General Election and a sizeable minority of us do not vote at all. But at the beginning of the 19th century only a tiny majority of men had the right to vote. Our liberties as they stand were not handed down benevolently by the government, but were hard won by individuals and groups of people like the Chartists, Individual and group protesters, Trade Unionists and Suffragists/Suffragettes. What was the impact of these protests and the reaction of the authorities? Join us to find out more

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 10/09/2024 -
Tue 26/11/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Kate Antoniou
Course code:
Q00017450
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £74.00

History: The history of Britain 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.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 10/09/2024 -
Tue 26/11/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Kate Antoniou
Course code:
Q00017451
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £74.00

History: What if (the road not travelled)

This virtual history course delves into the fascinating realm of counterfactual history, exploring pivotal moments in history and imagining alternate outcomes. Through looking at what happened in situations where the outcome was not at all clear cut, we will analyse the factors that shaped historical events and speculate on how different choices could have led to alternate trajectories. Through discussion and speculation on everything from medieval battles to modern political decisions, this course offers a unique perspective on the "what ifs" of history. How might the world be different today if the outcome had been different? Join the class to find out.

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 11/09/2024 -
Wed 27/11/2024
Times:
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Duration:
12 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Kate Antoniou
Course code:
Q00017277
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £74.00