WEA courses

The course aims to encourage learners to attend art exhibitions and/or musical events with a greater background knowledge in order to enhance appreciation. If actual attendance is not possible, to undertake independent research and hence, enjoy a more active and cultural lifestyle. The class also offers an opportunity for learners to interact socially with like- minded people in intellectual pursuits. It also encourages learners to acquire critical and analytical skills through debate and discussion. The course covers all styles and periods from the Renaissance to the present day. It is multi media to accommodate diverse learning styles and preferences. It is suitable for beginners and connoisseurs alike.

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.

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.

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.

Learning how to construct, apply modelling techniques and then paint air dry clay items.

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.

This course supports learners transitioning to Entry 2 Writing ESOL, emphasising practical writing skills such as sentence structure, grammar, and vocabulary. Through targeted exercises, learners enhance their ability to write clearly and effectively, preparing for further language development and real-life communication needs.

This course is designed for ESOL learners preparing to retake their exams. Focused on boosting confidence and refining skills, it offers targeted practice in speaking and listening to help you succeed. With expert guidance, you’ll learn effective exam strategies, identify areas for improvement, and build on your existing knowledge. Whether you need support with timing, understanding questions, or improving accuracy, this course provides a safe and supportive environment to develop your abilities. Join us to feel more prepared and ready to pass your exam.

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.