WEA courses

This course explores history of Britain's relationship with the European Union, from its inception to the present day. The course will cover key events, policies, and political figures that have shaped this relationship, culminating in the Brexit referendum and its aftermath. We will be looking in a comprehensive way at our attitude to the EU from the earliest days, focusing on the factors which led to our eventual entry and navigate through the complex history of Britain’s relationship with the EU, focusing on key events, policies, and political dynamics leading to Brexit and beyond.

As built, canals linked towns and cities with the remote corners of the English countryside. Built largely to carry coal to fuel the Industrial Revelation, they are used today for pleasure purposes. Canals offer the opportunity to improve health and wellbeing, whether walking along the towpath or travelling along in a barge. Come and join this illustrated course where you will develop your historical / technical skills by finding and exploring a number of sources about the canals. Your tutor will guide you towards sources which provide information on the physical design of your local canal, the industry it was built to serve and the individuals who worked tirelessly to make a living. There will be a study of the Trent & Mersey, Peak Forest and Somersetshire Coal Canals, together with a review of the impact on the canals of the Napoleonic War. The course will look at some of the features of canals, such as Bridges, Tunnels, Aqueducts, Reservoirs, Gauging Docks, Weighing Machines, Gauging Stations and Winding Holes. This course is suitable for learners with a previous knowledge of the subject To note down key points, it is suggested that you bring a notebook.

Begin your journey towards a rewarding career in education with our Support Work in Schools (Level 1) course. Learn the essential skills and knowledge required to support teachers and students in the classroom. Ideal for individuals considering a career in education.

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.

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.

Continue enhancing your English skills for life and work in the UK with our Next Steps course. Focus on more advanced communication techniques and practical applications. Ideal for non-native speakers looking to further improve their English proficiency.

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.

Join us for an exciting new course designed for beginner needle felters! If you're curious about this versatile craft, this is the perfect opportunity to learn the basics and beyond. We'll introduce you to the essential equipment and materials needed to create various patterns and shapes. Throughout the course, you'll explore different techniques for sculpting wool into beautiful creations. Skills covered and enhanced will include understanding different types of wool and needles, mastering basic felting techniques, and creating both flat and three-dimensional pieces. You'll also learn how to incorporate embellishments and combine colours effectively.

"Step Into Work" is a comprehensive program designed to equip you with the essential skills needed for job hunting. This course covers writing effective cover letters, creating standout CVs, and mastering interview techniques. Through practical workshops and expert guidance, you'll learn how to present yourself confidently to potential employers and increase your chances of landing the job you desire. This course will help you examine your current skills and qualities and how they transfer to job related tasks. You’ll need access to the internet to take this ‘Step into Work’ program as our tutors use the WEA’s digital learning portal, Canvas, to send you important information and tasks.

This helping in schools programme is designed to help you gain the knowledge and skills to successfully complete your level 2 award in support work in schools and colleges. It consists of two parts, the main qualification which will be taught in the morning, followed by a short study skills session to support your learning. This qualification will teach you key skills for employment in a school or college. This course prepares you for a variety of roles. It provides the basic skills and knowledge necessary to work in administration, technical, or support roles in a learning environment. Studying support work in schools at level 2 can be a first step towards working with children in teaching positions. The confidence training will prepare you to feel comfortable stepping back into the classroom. This part of the course will help you bridge the gaps in your confidence and overcome the obstacles standing in your way to get back into learning.