WEA courses

With the advent of the Industrial Revolution, we entered the age of the Anthropocene, where humans become the single most influential species on the planet. Today, discussions on environmental issues such as climate change and biodiversity have permeated practically all aspects of our lives, yet the field of art history remains less affected. This course aims to look at well-known artworks from the 19th and 20th century through the lens of the Anthropocene and invites learners to appreciate new ways of linking art with daily life.

A lovely 4 week course to emerge yourself for 2 hours me time and learn the basic to create greeting cards using Microsoft word. You will them be able to print it out and add all your creative skills in creating card toppers or your own personal verse and greeting

This introductory course is for anyone who wants to develop a basic knowledge of working with children up to the age of 5 in early years’ settings such as nurseries or pre-schools. You will understand the importance of communication and will gain confidence in applying skills and techniques that will engage children in their personal development. You will study activities that can stimulate children's growth and learning development in their early years. You will increase your confidence in caring for children in early years’ settings. To progress on to an accredited Early Years’ Course at the WEA, or other courses.

We all know that St Nicholas is the “real name” for Santa, but who was he, and how did he get associated with Christmas? We’ll take a look at the history of the Saint (and what else he was the saint of!), what other places he appears other than down your chimney, and various other characters who have been known to turn up and interact with small children in winter.

Learning to draw is a precious skill that encourages mindfulness and creativity. A quote from the late artist Paula Rego: ‘Sketches always have more vitality than paintings because you're finding things out through doing them.’ Inspired by a range of artists, this course will build your confidence and expertise in willow charcoal and white pastel on mid toned (not white) pastel paper (could be brown parcel paper). Our topic will be still life – in this case Christmas baubles! Learning to see and analyse real objects is the best teacher for developing your own drawing style. Suitable for beginners and those wishing to develop their skills.

Do you want to start learning English? Come and join First Steps In ESOL. You can meet other people and improve your English skills. Classes are held in a friendly and supportive venue with good bus links from Burnley town centre. This course is for beginners. You can join it even if you have not completed First Steps in ESOL 1. After completing it, you could move onto getting ready for an Entry 1 course such as Get Ready for ESOL Entry 1. The course is running at the Faith Centre in Burnley. This is a friendly centre where there are other ESOL classes running. The centre is on the bus links from the town centre.

This course is essential for learners who are learning via online and using the Canvas as a virtual learning environment. The course will cover essential skills such as how to log onto the canvas, how to to upload assignments on the canvas, send emails using the canvas inbox and use zoom. This training equips you with essential skills on how to learn effectively using the canvas and zoom applications. By the end of the course, you'll be both confident and proficient in using the features on both the canvas and zoom to successfully complete your learning online. This course is funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority.

Join us for an exciting new course designed for beginner needle felters! If you're curious about this versatile craft, this is the perfect opportunity to learn the basics and beyond. We'll introduce you to the essential equipment and materials needed to create various patterns and shapes. Throughout the course, you'll explore different techniques for sculpting wool into beautiful creations. Skills covered and enhanced will include understanding different types of wool and needles, mastering basic felting techniques, and creating both flat and three-dimensional pieces. You'll also learn how to incorporate embellishments and combine colours effectively. This course is funded by the Education Skills and Funding Agency.

Join us for an exciting new course tailored for beginner bag makers! If you have basic sewing machine experience, this is the perfect opportunity to refresh your skills and learn new tips. You'll have the choice of various bag patterns focusing on specific bag-making techniques, or you can create your own patterns using the skills you'll acquire. This course will delve into techniques like installing zippers, adding pockets, and crafting different bag bases and handles. We'll create 2-3 bags throughout the course with sustainability in mind. Skills covered and enhanced will include seams and hems, buttonholes, inserting zips, sewing and reinforcing corners, as well as sewing curves and darts. This course is funded by the Education Skills and Funding Agency.

As built, canals linked towns and cities with the remote corners of the English countryside. Built largely to carry coal to fuel the Industrial Revelation, they are used today for pleasure purposes. Canals offer the opportunity to improve health and wellbeing, whether walking along the towpath or travelling along in a barge. Come and join this illustrated course where you will develop your historical / technical skills by finding and exploring a number of sources about the canals. Your tutor will guide you towards sources which provide information on the physical design of your local canal, the industry it was built to serve and the individuals who worked tirelessly to make a living. There will be a study of the Trent & Mersey, Peak Forest and Somersetshire Coal Canals, together with a review of the impact on the canals of the Napoleonic War. The course will look at some of the features of canals, such as Bridges, Tunnels, Aqueducts, Reservoirs, Gauging Docks, Weighing Machines, Gauging Stations and Winding Holes. This course is suitable for learners with a previous knowledge of the subject To note down key points, it is suggested that you bring a notebook.