WEA courses

The short story is making a comeback - varied, rule-breaking and fun, interest in this once side-lined form is expanding. Writing a compelling short is a craft within itself and sometimes regarded as a ‘dark art’ - Does every word really need to count? When does the story really start? When should it end? We explore the varying forms, cross the genres and consider the outlets. There’s never been a better time to find inspiration and get motivated, if you have an idea for a story - now is the time.

This course is designed to introduce students to the art of sewing and the world of textiles, from foundational skills to garment construction. Through practical, hands-on learning, students will develop proficiency in sewing techniques, fabric selection, and pattern construction. By the end of the course, students will be able to design, create, and customise their own garments or textile projects, with a focus on craftsmanship, creativity, and sustainability.

Welcome to our Measure Up- Introduction to Sewing Course! This course is designed for sewing enthusiasts of all levels who want to improve their numerical skills specifically for the art of sewing. Over the course, students will dive in-to fundamental numerical concepts essential for accurate and efficient sewing projects. Whether you are a beginner or experienced at sewing, this introduction to sewing Course promises to empower you with all the knowledge to raise your sewing projects to new levels, join us and unravel the world of numbers in sewing like never before!

Welcome to our Measure Up- Introduction to Sewing Course! This course is designed for sewing enthusiasts of all levels who want to improve their numerical skills specifically for the art of sewing. Over the course, students will dive in-to fundamental numerical concepts essential for accurate and efficient sewing projects. Whether you are a beginner or experienced at sewing, this introduction to sewing Course promises to empower you with all the knowledge to raise your sewing projects to new levels, join us and unravel the world of numbers in sewing like never before!

A short (5 sessions) introduction to the range and complexity of Anglo-Saxon culture based upon selected survivals in the archaeological record ranging from exquisite, illuminated manuscripts to stunning portable timepieces. Each week we will concentrate on one theme/aspect of the Anglo-Saxon world and consider up to 5 objects from the time and use them to consider the Anglo-Saxons, their society and their legacy to us. There will also be extensive discussion of how difficult questions persist about the interpretation of the period and its survival in the archaeological record. There will be plenty of opportunity for discussion and questions throughout.

Macramé is a creative knotting technique that can be used to make a variety of items, plant hangers, wall hangings, friendship bracelets, belts, and bags. including jewellery and other decorative items. It’s a great way to relax and create beautiful art pieces for your home. Learning new skill is to support learners with their health and wellbeing. Learn a new skill which may be a route into employment / self-employment. During this course your tutor will give you demonstration and individual attention for your guidance. In this course you will be working with a macramé cord and each learner will be able to complete a wall hanger . It can be used by you or can be gifted to the loved ones. This is a continuation of the autumn beginners’ course, but newcomers are also welcome

Learning about Abstract Art is fascinating and rewarding. This course covers its evolution from 19th-century pioneers like JMW Turner to movements such as Impressionism, Cubism, Futurism, Modernism, and up to the 21st century. It also highlights lesser-known female artists who have been overlooked by the art world. Each lesson starts with an interactive visual presentation featuring these examples. You’ll learn and practice using various drawing and painting materials, including inks, chalk, oil pastels, watercolour, acrylic, collage, and mixed media. This course is suitable for complete beginners and those wanting to improve their skills and develop their own style.

"The courses are Specifically designed for adults with learning difficulties and disabilities – based in a partner-organisation day centre. (charity Adhar people This course is for learners with Mental Health Conditions from the South Asian Community. Learners are service users – at day service funded by Adult Social Care in Leicestershire and Loughborough area who offer education, advocacy and support to adults who have either been discharged or under review at the Mental Health Unit at Glenfield Hospital. Learners have low levels of self-confidence, co-occuring morbidities such as learning disabilities and depression. Learners tend to get stressed and anxious – this could be due to multiple factors such as side effects from medications taken, as a result of social isolation due to stigma associated with mental health issues and as a result of the condition(s) itself. Family members and team leaders have identified the positive impact of engaging in learning activities focussed on Art. The tutor incorporates breathing exercises to ensure learners are prepared at the start of each session to learn effectively and manage their stress. This course is part of a wider learning programme to develop their confidence for life and support their physical and mental health and wellbeing. "

British art of the twentieth century is outstanding for its range of interest, style and inherent individualism. This course explores the richness and diversity of the fascinating work of a range of artists including Paul Nash, L.S. Lowry, Graham Sutherland, Ben Nicholson, Henry Moore and Lucian Freud. We also discover how a modernist approach emerged from the British art of the Great War.

Learning about Abstract Landscape Art is a fascinating and rewarding topic; it tracks an evolving story looking at different ages, from 19th Century innovators such as JMW Turner, through to Impressionism, Cubism, Futurism and Modernism in general, right up to the 21st Century. This course will also introduce you to some lesser known female artists who have been formerly neglected by the art establishment. Inspired by these examples, shown at the beginning of each lesson in an interactive visual presentation, we will develop skills in a range of drawing and painting media, including drawing inks, chalk and oil pastels, watercolour, acrylic, collage and mixed media. This course is for complete beginners and those looking to improve their skills and develop their own style.