WEA courses

The course presents all twenty-two “fables” of Robert Louis Stevenson, some as short as a few lines, others running to several pages, all of them challenging the reader with unexpected approaches to human life. We will read all the fables in six weeks, coming together on Zoom to share responses and questions, examine the literary merits and explore the ways the fables might enhance our understanding of ourselves and others we come into contact with day by day. There are podcasts for each fable to supplement our discussions, as well as space on the Canvas site to continue the Zoom discussions.

This comprehensive course integrates four key areas to enhance your learning experience: using Canvas for online education, developing essential study skills whilst preparing you to achieve ESOL Speaking and Listening Entry Level 3. Ideal for learners looking to improve their digital literacy, English language proficiency, and study techniques, this course provides a holistic approach to academic and personal growth. The course is delivered by an experienced ESOL tutor that will support you through your learning journey. By the end of this course, you will have a solid grasp of digital learning tools, enhanced English language skills, effective study habits, and a valuable ESOL qualification.

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.

Are you considering learning new skills or changing careers? Transitioning back into education after a break can be challenging. This course aims to equip you with the confidence needed to re-enter the classroom environment comfortably using an online platform called Canvas.

This course will examine the publishing phenomenon of Nordic Noir, locating its roots in the early twentieth century, before exploring four contemporary novels from the genre. Our texts will be Doctor Glas by Hjalmar Soderberg; Smilla’s Sense of Snow by Peter Hoeg; The Bird Tribunal - Agnes Ravatn; The Flatey Enigma - Viktor Arnor Ingolfson and Missing - Karin Alvtegen. These texts will take us inside the mind of Nordic Noir and we will evaluate the common features of the genre and its relationship with crime-fiction, horror and recent forms of Gothic literature. There will be ample scope for lively discussion in our sessions

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. Leading a busy life leaves little room for calm and relaxation. This can make it hard for us to wind down and enjoy the present. But finding these moments of calm is essential for our emotional well-being and mental health. This short course will introduce you to a range of simple and accessible relaxation techniques that will help you to learn to slow down and relive tension. The session is practice based; you will be guided to participate in a series of relaxation practices that will support you to progressively relax. We will focus on calming breathing techniques, gentle mindful movements to relieve tension and guided Yoga Nidra (deep relaxation of both mind and body).

This course is essential for learners who are learning via online and using the Canvas as a virtual learning environment. The course will cover essential skills such as how to log onto the canvas, how to to upload assignments on the canvas, send emails using the canvas inbox and use zoom. This training equips you with essential skills on how to learn effectively using the canvas and zoom applications. By the end of the course, you'll be both confident and proficient in using the features on both the canvas and zoom to successfully complete your learning online. This course is funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority.

The emergence of the House of Lancaster could have led to a major decline of the English realm, yet it achieved its greatest success against the enemy of France. We will begin by looking at the latter part of Henry IV’s reign, and his struggle with his own eldest son the Prince of Wales, and in particular focus on how that rivalry manifested itself in a competition between Henry’s sons. Thereafter however we will then go on to concentrate on the Agincourt campaign under Henry V and the subsequent consequences of the renewed conflict of the Hundred Years’ War.

London is one of the most diverse cities in the world. Many distinct places lie within its boundaries. There are many unusual corners, unexpected history, remarkable buildings, and fascinating characters which illustrate the city’s development both socially and culturally. These eight autumn walks will reveal contrasting parts of London and show how Londoners lived and worked, how they were entertained, how they travelled, how they constructed bridges. We shall meet novelists, con men, rock stars, minor royalty, politicians, a whole panoply of London life. In addition, these walks for two hours long will bring the benefit of healthy exercise!

This comprehensive sewing course is designed for beginners looking to develop essential sewing skills and knowledge. The curriculum covers everything from understanding the key components and stitches of a sewing machine to mastering beginner techniques like sewing in circles and straight lines. Students will learn how to work with various fabrics, create a tote bag, and use commercial patterns effectively. The course also explores the basics of hand-sewing, zipper installation, and topstitching. Additionally, students will gain practical insights into marketing their sewing projects, including using social media, creating adverts, and developing a one-page business plan using the Business Canvas Model.