WEA courses

Are too many too quick to dismiss the fantasy genre as pure entertainment and/or escapist spectacle? Are there varying degrees of fantasy on screen, rendering the term fantasy film as something rather too broad? We examine a selection of five films, all using elements of fantasy to tell their stories. In Orlando, adapted from literature, elements of fantasy are used to highlight inequalities within society. Young Einstein, a film derided by critics in the U.S, makes use of alterative history and elements of surrealism to both entertain and arguably present some deeper comments regarding humanity and innovation, does its fantastical approach help or hinder? Labyrinth offers a unique screen vision by immersing the viewer in a vivid fantasy world earning itself cult status to this day but is it for children, adults or both? Spirited Away makes use of animation to comment on the modern world, here, the fantasy element is fundamental to its approach. More recent films such as Barbie prove fantasy can be big at the box office, using a variety of different approaches to both entertain and relevant social comment. Are all these fantasy films as much if not far more than meet the eye? Are there any reoccurring themes approaches? And is fantasy an ideal medium for the screen? Orlando (1992), Young Einstein (1988), Labyrinth (1986), Barbie (2023), Spirited Away (2001).

With a series of sessions all designed to help you discover/rediscover and develop your own new and/or existing story ideas - be these a short story, a novel - or if you just aren't sure or even started writing yet. The return of this fun, friendly and structured approach to aid you in finding inspiration, putting pen paper and get writing as we let fate guide us! We let the 'hand of fate' take us on a fresh approach to finding & maintaining that vital spark of inspiration, motivation to write fiction. A spin of the wheel will decide the subject area, theme or tasks for the week in a fun and friendly chance to meet and share ideas with others, exploring useful tricks and tips - whilst importantly gaining some quality information, developing some genuine writing skills and getting writing!

Explore the rich history and cultural significance of British cinema in this comprehensive course. Analyse iconic films, directors, and movements that have shaped the British film industry from its inception to the present day.

To use some philosophical ideas so that at the end of it you have a better understanding of what it means to know something. Suitable for beginners, so knowledge of philosophy is not expected.

Designed for beginners, this fun course will show you how to take old /outdated pieces of costume jewellery and give them new life. Our friendly tutor will introduce you to the tools, materials and techniques which you can use to create lovely new pieces of jewellery to wear yourself, gift or maybe even sell on. We will provide basic materials but you are also encouraged to bring along any jewellery (not expensive) which you would like to transform.

Learn the basics of pottery with our Pottery for Beginners course. Explore techniques such as hand-building and wheel-throwing to create functional and decorative pottery items. Ideal for beginners looking to develop their pottery skills.

Take your speaking and listening skills to the next level with this ESOL course. Improving your communication skills will make you feel more confident interacting with others in the UK. ESOL entry 3 courses build on skills you learnt at entry 2. Gain confidence speaking in new and familiar situations and learn tools for effective communication. This is an English course for adults. It is aimed at speakers of other languages. ESOL classes are divided into three areas: reading, writing, and speaking and listening. If you’re helping others access ESOL courses in the UK, you’ve come to the right place.

Set yourself up for success at learning English with this ESOL preparation course. This course is designed to help you prepare for an ESOL entry 3 speaking and listening course. Learn key verbal communication skills you’ll need for the entry 3 ESOL course in speaking and listening. Get ready courses help you learn English at your own pace. They give you extra study time for each level and module so you can reach your full potential. This course helps you learn conversational tactics to support you in everyday interactions in the UK. This is a non-accredited English course for adults. If you’re helping others access entry 3 ESOL classes in the UK, you’ve come to the right place.

Prepare for your driving theory test with our Level 1 ESOL: ESOL Driving Theory course. Learn the rules of the road, traffic signs, and essential safety information needed to pass the test. Ideal for non-native speakers seeking to improve their English and obtain their driving licence.

This basic course will introduce learners to the world at work and the language needed to enter it. The course has been developed in partnership with West Bromwich Job centre but is open to everyone. The course will take place at CBO (Confederation of Bangladeshi Organisations) in West Bromwich. This course is particularly suitable for students are unemployed and have been referred by Job Centres to improve their spoken and written English and thereby get closer to getting a job. This course is aimed at pre-entry ESOL learners.