WEA courses

Do you sometimes feel frustrated that you are not communicating to others effectively and your views are not taken into account? Why is acting assertively so difficult, and what are the barriers for us? We will be looking at what we mean by assertive behaviour and how we can recognise and celebrate this. Investigating our own personal barriers to assertive behaviour will allow us to start to identify personal barriers, and considering ‘imposter syndrome’ allow us to start to counter any feelings of this type that we experience. How can we put our point of view making clear our own views while still respecting the views and needs of others. If you would like to find out more this course is for you.

Embark on a fascinating journey through time and space as we unravel the mysteries and marvels of the Silk Road. This 10-week course offers a comprehensive exploration of one of the most significant trade routes in history, tracing its origins, evolution, and enduring legacy. From the bustling marketplaces of ancient cities to the cross-cultural exchanges that shaped empires, we will delve into the rich tapestry of cultures, economies, and ideas that flourished along this ancient network of trade routes. · This course will offer a rich interdisciplinary exploration of the Silk Road, drawing on historical texts, archaeological evidence, visual media, and discussion to deepen understanding of its pivotal influence in world history.

Do you avoid certain conversations because they might be difficult to have? What might be the effect of this behaviour on you and others at work or at home? All of us tend to stick to certain patterns in communicating and some of these might be ineffective in some circumstances. Find out what your natural style is and investigate whether other styles might be more effective with the conversations you would like to have. Learn to use a simple framework to make sure your view come across and investigate how to avoid some of the common pitfalls in communication. Join this course to practice effective strategies to manage conflict and have more productive conversations.

What makes a good manager? What are the difference between the skills you need to employ as a good manager and those you demonstrate as a competent team player? What is the difference between a manager and a leader and what style of management or leadership may be appropriate for you and your organisation? We will investigate whether there are any personal skill gaps and how you might fill these. Bringing together both theory and practice, this course will help you plot your course to a future management role, and help you plan your route to your new role. You may be a newly promoted manager, or perhaps you want to identify whether you are ready. Join this class to find out more.

Are you approaching retirement age? Navigating the lifestyle change that retirement brings can be tricky. This retirement planning course aims to prepare you and your family for the changes that retirement brings. Its objective is to help you through the transition with ease so that you can enjoy this new phase of life. This short course will also help you gain an understanding of retirement planning services that exist to help you. This retirement planning training course covers personal planning and financial planning. Understand the emotional and personal changes that retirement brings. Consider how to plan your time and manage your relationships to maintain your emotional well-being. Is retirement really what it’s cracked up to be? Are you ready to retire? Research suggests that many people struggle to adjust to retirement although they may have been looking forward to it. How can we prepare ourselves effectively for this new phase of our lives? You may be someone who has always hankered to pursue a new career, volunteering or developing a new interest and would like the opportunity to fine tune and test out your ideas. We will be looking at your views about retirement, what some of the pitfalls might be, where you might start to look for financial planning advice, health, work and volunteering opportunities. Join us to explore this wonderful opportunity to have the time of your life!

Are you involved with working with others to help them to develop their talents? This may be in connection with your job, or possibly as part of a volunteering role, or interest. Find out from this course how Coaching and Mentoring can help to unlock other people’s potential in order to achieve their goals. We will be looking at how to use various techniques to help others identify their goals and work together to go through their short and long term options and commit to actions towards meeting these. If you are looking to support and nurture talent in others, helping to inspire others to hone new skills or career or person direction this is a good place to start.

Do you ever feel unsure of yourself? Perhaps around new people or at job interviews? If so, this self-esteem course can help you build tools to face these situations with confidence. Low self-esteem can hold you back in all areas of life. Whether you’d like to build confidence to step back into education, meet new people, or change jobs, confidence-building courses can teach you essential tools to change your mindset. Learn how to build self-esteem and overcome obstacles that are holding you back. The first step in your journey is believing you can successfully complete this course! Many people are daunted by the prospect of looking for a job when they are over 50 - don't be join this course to find out how to do it with success.

This 5 week course offers a unique exploration of British history by examining the lives and contributions of five remarkable women who left indelible marks on society, culture, and politics. From ancient warriors to pioneering scientists and influential writers, each woman represents a distinct era in British history, shedding light on the struggles, achievements, and societal changes of their times. Throughout the course, we will delve into the lives of these extraordinary women, analysing their impact on British society and their enduring legacies. By studying their stories, learners will gain a deeper understanding of key historical events, social movements, and cultural shifts that have shaped the fabric of Britain.

This course is re-run of the Spring term course: Embark on a fascinating journey through time and space as we unravel the mysteries and marvels of the Silk Road. This 10-week course offers a comprehensive exploration of one of the most significant trade routes in history, tracing its origins, evolution, and enduring legacy. From the bustling marketplaces of ancient cities to the cross-cultural exchanges that shaped empires, we will delve into the rich tapestry of cultures, economies, and ideas that flourished along this ancient network of trade routes. This course will offer a rich interdisciplinary exploration of the Silk Road, drawing on historical texts, archaeological evidence, visual media, and discussion to deepen understanding of its pivotal influence in world history.

What did it feel like to be a holiday maker in the past? Originally holidays were just Holy Days and a chance to make merry but they didn’t involve you leaving home. Travel for leisure really does not start until the 17th century with trips to a spa or seaside town for health reasons and to enjoy the social life. Later the Grand Tour is available for the wealthy. Change comes with the railways and cheap day trips, and in the 20th century paid holidays, seaside towns and holiday camps. Over the last 50 years overseas holidays, have been within the reach of many but what do current environmental and social concerns mean for the future? Join the class to find out more.