WEA courses

Would you like to find out more about ADHD? This course will help you learn about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. You will discover other conditions that are commonly experienced alongside ADHD. A big focus of the course is on how to support a child, young person or an adult with ADHD. You will gain an understanding of a range of different strategies and interventions which may be beneficial in a home, school or even work setting. You’ll also find out how assessments are carried out and how to apply for an EHCP to give a child that all important extra support in school.  

Join guest tutor Andy Beharrell on this fascinating insight into the history and events around the Essex, East Anglia and East Coast Waters. Each week will have a different theme starting with the shipwrecks around East Anglia, followed by The Maunsell Forts and ending with From Tierra Del Fuego to Essex. The course will be in the historic venue of The Reading Rooms at Billericay, Essex.

Join us to explore the work of James McNeil Whistler, from his more conventional portraiture to his experimental 'nocturnes' which have a totally contrasting approach & result causing consternation amongst a contemporary late 19th century audience. This course will consider the artist's work within the wider artistic chronological and stylistic context. This course is for learners who have an interest in this period of Art and have engaged in some previous studies of Art. The course material will cover different aspects of Whistler's work analysing examples in detail and consider them within the context of the development of the genre of portraiture as well as the way other aspects of his work opened up possibilities for innovation by influencing other artists.

In this taster course, learners will begin by considering the many and varied sources of the Arthurian legend, in literature and other media, before focusing on the most famous and complete literary work in English on the Matter of Britain, Malory’s Morte d’Arthur. We will study examples from this extensive work, and explore Malory’s prose style and his use of late Middle English. No prior knowledge of Middle English is required, and the course is suitable for beginners and improvers.

The detective story is one of the most popular literary genres, as well as one that has produced some classic novels. Each week we focus on a short detective story or novel, reading and discussing key passages. The selected novels are in chronological order, from the 19th century to modern times. We begin with Edgar Allen Poe and Conan Doyle, and end with Sophie Hannah. We’ll be able to share and debate interpretations, sharpen our critical and appreciative faculties, understand what detective fiction can tell us about the society and culture that produced it, and, hopefully, be inspired to read other works by the writers featured on the course.

Did you know that it is estimated that 80% of adults will suffer with back pain at some point in their lives. Back problems are one of the main causes of time off work. Back pain can last a few days, may come and go, or can become a chronic condition. Back care Awareness week aims to empower people with the knowledge and tools to both prevent back problems and to maintain a healthy back. Medical guidance encourages us to keep moving, stretch it out, and try to ease symptoms of stress to better manage back ache. Yoga is an excellent tool to support a healthy back and can be practiced by anyone. This mat-based session will introduce you to simple stretches and postures that

Kickstart your creative side with a 6-week writing course. Explore how other writers achieve their effect, improve your own writing by listening to and acting on feedback, learn how to offer sensitive and constructive comment to others. By the end of this course you should have generated 6 new pieces of work and have a good idea of how to improve and polish your work. Beginners and more experienced writers are welcome. The tutor is Liz McPherson. Liz’s work is published by Dreamcatcher, Prole, High Window, The Lake, LTU Wordspace, Yaffle and others. Her pamphlet, Unexpected Items is due to be published this year by Yaffle. She is a regular performer on the local open mic circuit, headlining recently at Gobby in the Lobby (Wakefield). She has been a tutor with the WEA for 14 years.

Pre-Entry English: Driving Theory Part 2 Overview: Master the essentials of driving theory in English with this comprehensive course! Get ready for your learner's permit test with confidence by building a strong foundation in road rules, traffic signs, and safe driving practices. What you'll learn: Part 1 - The Highway Code: Decode essential road signs and markings, understand traffic light signals, and learn right-of-way rules for a safe and smooth driving experience. Part 2 - Your Driving Test: Master the knowledge required for the practical driving test, including maneuvers, vehicle checks, and safe driving practices in various road conditions. Essential Terminology: Build a strong vocabulary related to car parts, driving actions, and traffic regulations, ensuring clear communication with instructors and fellow drivers. Practice Tests: Test your knowledge with practice quizzes designed to mirror the format of the official learner's permit tests. Benefits: Increase your confidence: Feel prepared and empowered when taking your learner's permit tests. Pass your tests the first time: Solidify your understanding of driving theory for a smoother testing experience. Develop safe driving habits: Learn the rules and regulations that keep you and others safe on the road. Build your English vocabulary: Enhance your English language skills with driving-specific terminology. This interactive course utilizes clear explanations, visuals, practice quizzes, and downloadable resources to ensure a thorough and engaging learning experience. Take control of your driving journey! Sign up for Pre-Entry English: Driving Theory Part 1 & 2 today!"

Attend our Employability course and boost your skills for work. If you’re entering the workforce for the first time or after a long break, this course can teach you essential skills employers look for and prepare you for the transition. Learn basic skills for jobs in any sector as well as key soft skills for your CV. Feel confident stepping into the workforce. This course will provide you with the soft skills required to get that job and give you the confidence and self esteem to sell what you have to offer to potential employers.

Get to the core of how to build or promote a business with this digital marketing course. Digital promotion activities such as online and social media marketing can help you support your company’s growth or build your own business. Get first-hand knowledge of key business activities that promote growth. Gain a clear understanding of digital marketing practices with this digital skills course. It’s ideal for flexible learning as you can choose topics that interest you from a variety of units. Pick up crucial skills for employment that can help you in any sector and build skills for your CV.