Self-employment, small business courses and creative careers 

Turn a passion into profit with our range of courses aimed to help you start your own business and run it successfully.  Find freedom in being your own boss and get the knowledge you need to start out on your own. 

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What you need to know as a small business owner

We offer marketing courses for small businesses, courses to help you balance the books and to get your own company started.  

Creative courses

Turn your hand to something creative by learning a skill that can lead to self-employment or work in a small business.   

We run courses in sewing, dressmaking and garment making. We also run courses in nail service, hair and beauty. Our creative crafts awards can also lead to paid work. 

Challenges and opportunities

We’ll help you understand the challenges and opportunities of freelancing or how you can apply your skills to get a job in a small business. From taster courses to full qualifications, there is something for everybody. 

Grow your interest into a business and make the most of your opportunities. 

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Social media and marketing for work

Learn the essentials of social media and marketing with our Social Media and Marketing for Work course. Understand how to use social media platforms to promote your business effectively. Ideal for individuals looking to enhance their marketing skills for professional purposes.
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Course Information

Dates:
Thu 31/10/2024 -
Thu 28/11/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
5 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Chris George
Course code:
Q00018625
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
8 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £50.00

Beginners Social Media Marketing: How to use Social Media for Business

Learn the basics of social media marketing with our Beginners Social Media Marketing: How to Use Social Media for Business course. Understand how to use social media platforms to promote your business effectively. Ideal for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
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Course Information

Dates:
Tue 05/11/2024 -
Tue 03/12/2024
Times:
10:00am - 12:00pm
Duration:
5 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Linda Bennett
Course code:
Q00017657
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £37.00

Start your own small business

Learn the essentials of starting a small business with our Start Your Own Small Business course. Understand the basics of business planning, finance, and marketing. Ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to turn their business ideas into reality.
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Course Information

Dates:
Thu 07/11/2024 -
Thu 28/11/2024
Times:
6:00pm - 9:00pm
Duration:
4 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Chris George
Course code:
Q00018624
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £50.00

Start your own small business

Learn the essentials of starting a small business with our Start Your Own Small Business course. Understand the basics of business planning, finance, and marketing. Ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to turn their business ideas into reality.
View details

Course Information

Dates:
Mon 02/12/2024 -
Tue 10/12/2024
Times:
1:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
8 sessions
Location:
Community Action Norfolk (Dereham)
Ambassador Way
Ambassador Way
Dereham
NR20 3TL
Tutor:
Chris George
Course code:
Q00018623
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £50.00

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!

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Membership Information

Duration:
12 months
Fee:
£15

Textiles and Fashion: Textiles for Self Employment

Welcome to the Textiles for Self-Employment Course! This course is for those who want to start a business in textiles and sewing. You will learn how to create and sell your own textile products. We will teach you about choosing fabrics, designing items, and advanced sewing techniques. You will also learn about pricing, marketing, and selling your products. Our experienced tutor will guide you through each step. By the end of the course, you will have the skills and knowledge to start your own textiles business and become self-employed. Join us and turn your passion into a career!
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Course Information

Dates:
Mon 13/01/2025 -
Mon 03/02/2025
Times:
12:00pm - 3:00pm
Duration:
7 sessions
Location:
Clovelly Centre (Southampton)
60-68 Clovelly Road
Southampton
SO14 0AU
Tutor:
Tracey Sweetman
Course code:
Q00017058
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £88.20