WEA courses

Develop skills to help you read, write, and communicate in English with confidence. Improved language skills open doors to work and study opportunities and help you learn key skills for employment. Level 1 functional skills courses are not like learning English at school. They’re created by adults for adults, and aim to teach you practical English skills through real-life situations. Strengthen your writing skills and learn reading techniques to help you tackle everyday situations at work or while studying. This adult English course helps you develop your language skills through real-life situations. Functional Skills level 1 is a government-funded accredited English course for adults. Functional Skills qualifications are free if you don't already have a GCSE in English or Maths at grades A*-C, or 4-9. We'll check your level and any previous qualifications before you start. This ensures you are on the correct course.

This course is designed for you to develop your creative side and use your previous clay hand-building techniques to progress to an intermediate level, plus a chance explore the different decorative styles working with Clay. By the end of the course you should have lots of different pottery pieces and different pottery skills. You will be in a group with others and led by a talented Arts and Crafts tutor. Your work will be taken away and fired in a kiln by the tutor and it will be yours to keep!

On this lecture style course, we will learn about The Ottoman Empire from its formation at the end of the 13th century right through to the 20th century; the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent, and the countries and areas involved - Southeast Europe, parts of Central Europe, Western Asia, North Africa and the Horn of Africa, parts of Eastern Europe and the Caucasus. In the early 20th century, the empire allied with Germany on the side of the Central Powers in WWI. The Empire's defeat and the occupation of part of its territory by the Allied Powers resulted in its partitioning and the loss of its Middle Eastern territories, but the successful Turkish War of Independence against the occupying Allies led to the emergence of the Republic of Turkey in the Anatolian heartland and the abolition of the Ottoman monarchy.

This 10-week course delves into ten seminal classic texts that have profoundly shaped political thought and governance across the world. From ancient philosophical treatises starting with Plato’s Republic to modern declarations of rights and treaties, each document represents a milestone in the development of political ideas. We will explore the historical context, core arguments, and lasting impacts of these influential works. Delving into questions which are just as relevant today, such as ‘what is the role of the state?’ or ‘is democracy the ideal form of government?’ to gain a deeper understanding of these works contributions to political theory and practice.

This course will help to develop and channel your writing ability, whether as a hobby or for publication. The emphasis is on individual development, with discussion of many aspects of writing. You will be invited to read your work and have feedback in a constructive and friendly setting. All forms are included; short stories, novels, plays, feature articles, poetry, autobiography and memoirs. We will have discussions on many aspects of writing and short exercises in class. All you need is an interest in developing and enjoying creative writing skills. For developers and beginners, who are welcome.

Work towards GCSE-level maths skills with this functional skills level 1 course. Progress your maths skills to help you access work and study opportunities. Functional maths improves your numeracy skills through real-life situations. Learn maths in context. Develop practical maths skills to help you in everyday situations such as organising your personal budget or applying discounts when shopping. This level 1 functional skills maths course can help you get a GCSE-equivalent qualification in maths. You’ll learn practical maths skills employers look for. Functional Skills qualifications are free if you don't already have a GCSE in English or Maths at grades A*-C, or 4-9. We'll check your level and any previous qualifications before you start. This ensures you are on the correct course.

Come and join us to develop your creative skills and create some unique and beautiful projects of your own! This Advanced Mosaic course is the opportunity to complete a complex design or method that is specific to you. With guidance and advice, you will be provided with support as you go through each stage. Having completed the Beginners’ and Intermediate courses, by now you will have understood and practised various mosaic techniques and become adept at using the tools and materials. This is a chance to continue developing design and cutting skills and to allow your personal style to evolve.

Come and join us on this friendly and supportive course which will support you on your journey from music listener to music maker! Try out a range of different music making activities that will allow you to develop and explore your music making skills, as well as building your knowledge of practical music theory. The course includes activities to explore your potential in music making on a physical or virtual keyboard, as well as wider music making skills including singing, digital music making and performing. You will be supported and encouraged to share recordings of your music making with the group.

Come and join a new course aimed at the more advanced machine sewn bag maker. Previous experience of the sewing machine is necessary, but we will refresh on tips and practise existing sewing machine skills. You will have the choice of a range of bag patterns that will focus on specific bag making skills and/or create your own patterns from the skills you will learn. This course will also delve into advanced techniques such as installing zippers and creating adjustable straps, enhancing the functionality and style of your h

Join our five-week online art course for an exciting dive into Art and Design Movements. Each week, you'll explore a new movement: Bauhaus, Memphis Group, De Stijl, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco. You'll learn about their history, key features, famous artists, and how they were shaped by their times. This course makes understanding art fun and easy!