WEA courses

This creative outdoor course is designed for people of any ability and will help you whatever your fitness level. You only do as much or as little as you want. In the fresh air, through activities such as walking, stretching, yoga, cycling or even boxercise, you will have the chance to gain some confidence and enjoy the world around you. It is a great opportunity to regain and/or increase your confidence, and perfect for meeting others with the same interests. Each session will introduce a different activity and each of them will be outside in the fresh air.

Longer, darker evenings of Autumn provide the opportunity to familiarise yourself with the night sky. We will concentrate on some of the objects (stars and planets) that can be seen over the autumn with the unaided eye. You will be given guidance on how to observe them. Astronomy is a very dynamic subject, and we will consider news stories of note. The course is for beginners/those with some experience and targetted observing challenges will be set. You will be encouraged to undertake independent research (via ‘mini-projects’) and, if you are willing, share with class members. Weekly knowledge quizzes will be set so that you can see your progress.

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.

"Introduction to Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools" is designed for anyone interested in gaining essential knowledge and skills to work with children and young people in educational settings. This course provides a comprehensive foundation in understanding schools as organisations, safeguarding, equality, diversity, and inclusion. Learners will also explore key aspects of health and safety and how to support positive behaviour in the learning environment. You will be able to understand the UK policies and procedures covering confidentiality, data protection and disclosure of information. Upon successful completion, you will be prepared to progress to a Level 2 Qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning with the WEA, opening opportunities for a career in education support roles.

If you are thinking about a career in teaching, this introductory course is for you. Teaching assistants are an integral part of the classroom. Not only do they provide vital support for pupils, but they also support the teaching that takes place. This course is ideal if you would like to know more about working as a teaching assistant. The role varies widely with some specialising in certain areas of education such as literacy, numeracy, music, specific learning needs and other disability support, English as a second language or behaviour. Teaching assistants can be found in schools for Early Years right through to secondary schools, and the number of TAs in one school can vary widely depending on necessity and amount of funding provided. This course will give you information about working as a teaching assistant (also known as a classroom assistant, a pupil support assistant, a teacher's aide, or abbreviated as a TA) and how you can provide support to teachers by providing teaching and learning support in whatever way possible.

This Multiply course, offered online by WEA in Essex, is perfect for beginners without a Level 2 maths qualification who want to upskill in Excel and financial management. This course provides a foundation in using Excel for budgeting, creating basic formulas and financial tracking—key skills for today’s job market. You’ll learn basic Excel functions, financial calculations, and practical problem-solving tailored to real-world financial scenarios. With flexible online learning and support from an experienced tutor, this course helps you build confidence in handling finances, enhancing your employability and preparing you for work-ready roles.

Would you like to learn new skills or change jobs? It can be hard to get back into learning after a long break. This confidence training will prepare you to feel comfortable stepping back into the classroom. This short course can help you bridge the gaps in your confidence and overcome the obstacles standing in your way to get back into learning. The objective of this course is to get you into a positive mindset to achieve your goals. You will practise a variety of confidence-building exercises to help that mindset shift come from within.

Experience the therapeutic benefits of clay modelling with our Ways to Wellbeing: Clay Modelling course. Learn techniques for creating clay sculptures and decorative items to enhance your well-being. Ideal for individuals seeking creative expression through clay.

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.

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 meditation and mindfulness course is ideal if you want to learn to relax, be present, and alleviate stress in your life. Meditation courses teach us to recognise the importance of conscious thought in our everyday lives. Develop concentration strategies to help focus your mind. Understand the principles of mindfulness. Learn to block out intrusive thoughts and enjoy the present moment.