WEA courses

The saxophone was invented by the Belgian instrument maker Adolphe Sax in the early 1840s. In this course we will look at the history of the saxophone and the various different types of saxophone. We will look at the part the sax has played in a wide range of musical genres including classical music (concert bands, chamber music, solo repertoire, and occasionally orchestras), military bands, marching bands, jazz (big bands and jazz combos), and contemporary music. The various genres will be demonstrated with music played live by the course tutor – a professional saxophonist.

Welcome to the Level 2 Textiles and Dressmaking Course! This course is for those who know basic sewing and want to learn more and those completing the Level 1 Dressmaking course. You will improve your sewing skills and learn about different fabrics. We will teach you advanced techniques like darts, pleats, and zippers. You will also learn to design simple clothing items and make more detailed projects. Our helpful tutor will support you as you create your own clothes. By the end, you will have made several garments and be ready for more advanced dressmaking challenges. Join us and take your skills to the next level!

Build on your communication skills with this ESOL speaking and listening course. This English course for adults is aimed at speakers of other languages. It will help you improve your speaking and listening skills to communicate better in English. Entry 2 ESOL courses are right for you if you have basic speaking and listening skills in English. This course will help you gain confidence to speak about everyday topics and improve your comprehension. There are also reading and writing courses at this level. If you’re helping others access ESOL classes in the UK, you’ve come to the right place.

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. If you find Christmas stressful, why not treat yourself or a loved one to a gift of health and wellbeing? Have you ever been interested in helping yourself holistically? This course will take you through the fascinating art of reflexology where we will explore the roots and history of this amazing subject.

Cooking a homemade Christmas dinner doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Learn how to feed the whole family with a tasty and affordable festive meal in this Christmas cooking on a budget course. This is a cooking and personal finance course rolled into one. You’ll get practical budgeting tips you can apply in the kitchen. This course is ideal for you if you’d like to learn how to cook homemade meals on a reduced budget.

In this introductory taster session, participants will learn the basics of creating a personalized family tree using calligraphy. The session features demonstrations of essential techniques, including lettering styles, layout design, and decorative flourishes. A pre-project checklist will guide students on key considerations before starting, such as selecting appropriate calligraphy tools, choosing paper types, deciding on script styles, and planning the family tree layout. Ideal for beginners or those curious about calligraphy, this hands-on session provides an inspiring glimpse into the art of calligraphy while equipping participants with the knowledge to start their own meaningful family tree project.

This course will help you progress to a Functional Skills Maths qualification. This course helps you learn the necessary maths skills to bridge the gap between entry level and Level 1 and Level 2 functional maths. Gain numeracy skills for learning, life, and work. This Multiply course helps you learn Maths as an adult. These preparatory courses give you extra study time to acquire the knowledge you’ll need. This is an adult maths course for people who are looking to progress to Level 1 or Level 2 functional skills courses. It is not accredited.

One hundred years ago, André Breton published his Manifesto of Surrealism, officially starting one of the most influential movements of the 20th century. This short course (2 x 2 hours) is an introduction to Surrealist art, and an occasion to dive right in the surreal world of dreams and the unconscious. We will explore the works of iconic artists like Max Ernst, Salvador Dalí and René Magritte, while learning about key techniques like automatism and collage. We will see how Surrealism challenges reality and sparks creativity. No experience needed, just bring your imagination!

Continue developing your English skills to open doors to work and study opportunities. This entry 3 functional skills course helps you learn English skills employers look for. Gain practical skills to improve your reading, writing, and verbal communication in English. 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 entry 3 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 funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority.

The role of the community interpreter is an integral part of our changing communities and increasingly important. The interpreter acts as a bridge between communities and enables people to access the services they need and approach situations which otherwise would not be possible. The Level 2 Certificate in Preparing for the Community Interpreting Role enables learners who are speakers of other languages to develop the language and skills necessary to go on and train as Community Interpreters at Level 3 and Level 4. This is the ideal qualification for anyone who wants to enter the interpreting profession and become a paid interpreter or volunteer in the UK.