WEA courses

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. The course is funded by the Greater London Combined Authority.

In this course we will discuss and analyse the following authors and their works. These are: Look Back in Anger - John Osborne. The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie - Muriel Spark. The Vet's Daughter - Barbara Comyns. A Voice Through A Cloud - Denton Welch. A Kind of Loving - Stan Barstow. These texts are an eclectic blend of plays, novels and the autobiographical in the case of Denton Welch, an eccentric and now largely forgotten. There will be great scope for discussion and the voicing of opinions, and you will be encouraged to develop your own theories and interpretations in a supportive atmosphere.

During this course we will explore the course of British Nature writing from the late nineteenth century until the early years of the twenty-first century. Our writers will include W.H. Hudson, Kenneth Grahame, Richard Mabey, Mark Cocker, Roger Deakin, Robert Macfarlane, Nan Shephard, Kathleen Jamie and a host of others. We will discover how the concerns and agendas of British Nature Writing have evolved over time towards the present and the rise of the Deep Ecology Movement and its writings. There will be ample scope for discussion and close reading of the chosen texts, and opportunity to analyse what, in some instances are, controversial ideas.

Literature: Writers of the Second World War is designed to introduce individuals to the literature that depicts the experiences and impact of the Second World War. This course covers key authors and works from the period, exploring their themes, contexts, and significance in literary history. Participants will read and analyse selected texts, learning about the historical and cultural backgrounds that influenced these works. The course includes lectures, discussions, and reading assignments that encourage critical thinking and deeper understanding of Second World War literature. By the end of the course, participants will have a comprehensive knowledge of the literature of the Second World War and its significance in the broader context of literary history. This course is ideal for literature enthusiasts and history buffs looking to explore the literature of the Second World War.

Enhance your creative writing skills with our Creative Writing for Intermediate Learners course. Learn techniques for writing fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction. Ideal for writers with some experience looking to refine their craft.

This course is aimed at those with some experience in sewing but, willing to improve existing skills. The course will cover a range of soft furnishing techniques including pillow and cushion making, zip insertions and mitred corners for curtains.

A friendly and accessible exploration of five cinematic works made under the banner of Channel Four Films now known as Film 4. What are the founding principles? How do they differ from ‘rival’ BBC Films. Is what we expect from a Film 4 film now different from what may’ve been expected from an earlier Channel 4 Film? We have fun whilst gaining knowledge and understanding of Channel 4 Film and cinema in general. What are the running features? Promoting knowledge, understanding and confidence regarding film and cinema in general, whilst also highlighting specialist language and terminology, advancing literacy, communication skills and confidence in delivering informed feedback.

One of the revolutionary art movements of the early 20th century, surrealism was made for the movies. Artists keen on challenging the boundaries of form, genre and art itself, quickly made use of the possibilities of the moving image. Beyond that, early filmmakers discovered film’s potential for the ‘unreal’. In surrealist cinema, questions about identity and reality, challenges to social norms, the subconscious, dreams and the fantastic meet.

Did you know yoga can help you get stronger and more flexible, no matter your age or abilities? There are yoga courses for all levels and needs. Even if you can’t take part in a standing class, this beginner’s yoga course can help you gain mobility without taking a toll on your joints. Seated yoga is perfect for you if you’d have difficulty following a regular yoga lesson. Whether you have mobility issues or chronic fatigue, this yoga course can help you reduce stiffness in your joints and learn to relax. Enjoy the practice of yoga from a chair.

Develop foundational reading skills with this access to English course. This English course is for speakers of other languages. It will help you learn basic English to study, work, and live in the UK. This ESOL reading course helps people who are just starting to learn English. It will help you gain confidence reading short texts and common words in English. There are also writing and speaking & listening courses at this level. If you’re helping others access ESOL classes in the UK, you’ve come to the right place. What we’ll cover: - Learn to identify common English words in everyday situations. - Understand signs, symbols and texts you will come across. - Read information about timetables, prices, and schedules. - Understand the purpose of different texts, including adverts, posters, and news articles. - Understand how punctuation is used to help you read more easily.