WEA courses

This is an opportunity to gain knowledge and insight into a Victorian way of life undertaking a drawing course in this extraordinary Art Gallery and Museum. Renowned nationally for a unique collection of Pre-Raphaelite and Victorian art and sculpture, it also showcases the home of the original owners Merton and Annie Russell-Cotes, which is almost completely intact with furniture and decorations. The couple made many overseas voyages, and brought back numerous objects from their travels, many of which are displayed in the Museum. The Mikado room houses a selection of the 100 trunk loads of Japanese artefacts purchased. There are also temporary exhibitions to sketch in, including a show of the work of May Morris, William Morris's daughter. Suitable for beginners and improvers.

The Confidence in your Community course is an exciting additional course which engages learners for an addition session. The course is designed to give them the opportunity to build their confidence in and around their local community; whilst they are out there using their newly learned ESOL skills. The course will focus on identifying local resources (such as libraries, community centres and local services) to help learners to engage more in their communities and build their confidence in accesses these local resources and encouraging them to be more engaged locally also. By learning the vocabulary for and then identifying local services; learners can start their journeys towards engaging in the community more, benefiting themselves and their local area.

The Confidence in your Community course is an exciting additional course which engages learners for an addition session. The course is designed to give them the opportunity to build their confidence in and around their local community; whilst they are out there using their newly learned ESOL skills. The course will focus on identifying local resources (such as libraries, community centres and local services) to help learners to engage more in their communities and build their confidence in accesses these local resources and encouraging them to be more engaged locally also. By learning the vocabulary for and then identifying local services; learners can start their journeys towards engaging in the community more, benefiting themselves and their local area.

This micro course is designed for community learners who want to improve their job application success by learning how to tailor their CVs for different roles. In today’s competitive job market, it’s essential to highlight the skills and experience most relevant to each job you apply for, and this course will provide the practical skills to do just that. Throughout the session, learners will explore the key components of a CV, including personal statements, work experience, skills, and qualifications. The course will teach learners how to adapt each section of their CV to match the job description, ensuring they present themselves as the ideal candidate. Learners will also learn about using keywords from job adverts to pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and how to format their CVs to make a lasting impression. By the end of the course, learners will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to customise their CVs confidently for each job application, improving their chances of securing interviews. This course is ideal for anyone looking to enhance their job application strategy and stand out to potential employers.

This micro course is designed for those who want to explore how to turn their creativity into a business. The course will outline the very basics of what you need to know in order to set up, and start running, a successful arts and crafts business whether creating and selling unique artwork, unique home décor, or jewellery. The course covers how to identify and define your niche within the arts and crafts sector; the basics of pricing products to ensure profitability; key steps to setting up an online shop or selling at local markets; simple marketing techniques to attract customers, including using social media. This course is perfect for beginners and requires no prior business knowledge. By the end of the session, you will have a clear understanding of the first steps needed to launch their arts and crafts venture and make your creative passions profitable.

This micro course is designed for learners who want to improve their communication skills and build confidence in expressing themselves. On this short course you will explore techniques for clear and effective communication in different situations, including conversations, group discussions, and presentations. The course covers essential skills such as active listening, body language, and managing nerves when speaking. Through practical exercises and supportive feedback, you will gain the confidence to communicate assertively and positively in personal, professional, and community settings. This course is ideal for anyone looking to enhance their self-expression and build stronger connections with others.

Discover the art of abstract landscape painting with our Art Practical: Learn to Paint an Abstract Landscape course. Learn techniques for blending abstraction with the natural world to create expressive and dynamic artworks. Ideal for artists looking to explore new styles and techniques.

Unlock your creative potential with our Art Practical: Exploring Drawing course. Learn fundamental drawing techniques and experiment with different styles and mediums. Ideal for beginners and experienced artists looking to refine their skills.

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.

This course is for carers, former carers and the cared for. Th introduction to narrative theory provides you with a safe space to delve deep and express yourself creatively. Your art from this workshop will help you to consider your skills, strengths and sense of purpose, which can guide you through difficult times.