WEA courses

Interested in Nature writers who have worked with prose and poetry? This day school will explore the works of John Clare, Emily Bronte, and Gretel Ehrlich, with a glance at other relevant authors. Resources will be available on for pre- and post-course reading. The day will include presentations and group discussions on each writer’s work, moving between specific writings and the broader cultural context. This will help us understand how fiction connects to the ‘real’ world.

On this course we will explore: ● How the ghosts of metre and rhyme may exist in free verse, and how to achieve this ● How rhythm is generated within free verse through sonic devices. ● How rhythms of conversational speech are related to the rhythm of free verse, and how this produces a form of elevated speech. ● Rhyme and Rhythm in traditional poetry. The course will explore one technique each week and concentrate on workshopping this via the development of a subject during each session. These sessions will be built from structured inspiration tasks, discussion and experimentation with ideas and languages.

If you are new to machine sewing this course is for you. It is a beginner’s course which will introduce you to the different functions of a sewing machine. You will learn how to use a machine for a variety of projects. We will also explore the language used in sewing and try out some basic sewing techniques, types of stitches and also different ways to seam fabric. You will have an opportunity to develop your creative skills and safe money on simple clothing alterations and repairs

We will study the mutating virus of anti-semitism, through an exploration of the ancient template shaped by Christianity and examine key explosions of anti-Jewish violence and prejudice which Hitler was able to exploit, tragically culminating in the Final Solution. Through discussion and debate we will also spend time as a group examining contemporary Holocaust denial, distortion and conspiracy theories. Finally we will look at the current antisemitism accusations within the Labour party and its impact

Explore the rich history of the River Thames and other London waterways with our comprehensive course. Learn about the historical, cultural, and economic significance of these iconic waterways. Ideal for history enthusiasts and those interested in London's heritage.

Why was Britain's genetic make-up radically changed between 500 and 800 AD/CE? Were the newcomers environmental refugees, pagan plunderes, invaders or missionaries? Who were these new arrivals and what were they doing over here? This course will use recent information on sites, finds and their interpretation to shed new light on Anglo-Saxon Age archaeology in Britain. How and why the migrations took place will be illustrated using new (since 1980) excavation evidence, metal detecting finds, scientific analysis and aeriel remote sensing data.

Bring your imagination to life! This stop motion animation course guides you through the exciting world of creating animated stories frame by frame. Learn practical techniques, explore storytelling elements, and discover the magic of bringing characters and objects to life on screen. We will explore a variety of content including the principles of stop motion animation, from storyboarding to character creation. We will explore how to nbring the ideas to life and look into the post-production magic too. **This interactive course features engaging video demonstrations, step-by-step tutorials, and creative prompts to spark your imagination. Whether you're a hobbyist or aiming for a career in animation, this course is your launchpad to explore the world of stop motion animation!

British art of the twentieth century is outstanding for its range of interest, style and inherent individualism.  This seven week online course explores the richness and diversity of the fascinating work of a range of artists including Paul Nash, Graham Sutherland, Ben Nicholson and Henry Moore. We will also look at the portraits of Lucian Freud and Modern Art and the Great War. No previous experience is necessary  - just a lively, open-minded interest in art!  The social, cultural, political and historical context in which these works were produced

Discover the wonderful world of the English language with this Pre Entry ESOL course. It will help you to develop reading skills in English. Whether you have studied Pre Entry ESOL before or you are completely new to it, you will find value in this ESOL course. Develop your basic English skills to enable you to recognise the alphabet, simple words and sentences, letter formation and punctuation. You do not need any special tools to attend, just yourself and some enthusiasm. Start your language journey today by registering for this course.

Develop skills to help you read, write, and communicate in English with confidence. Improved language skills open doors to work and study opportunities and help you learn key skills for employment. Level 1 functional skills courses are not like learning English at school. They’re created by adults for adults, and aim to teach you practical English skills through real-life situations. 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 level 1 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.