WEA courses

This course will examine Ireland’s unique contribution to twentieth century poetry in English. We will explore the work of two Nobel Prize winners, W.B. Yeats and Seamus Heaney, plus the work of Patrick Kavanagh, Louis MacNeice and Michael Longley. Additionally, we will refer in passing to poems by numerous other poets such as Paul Muldoon and Derek Mahon. We will analyse those elements which have contributed to Ireland’s distinctive contribution to world literature in the last 100 years, and discuss the relationship between a politically troubled history and creativity. There will be ample opportunities for discussion in what will be lively sessions.

The Introduction to Maternity Support Work course offers a comprehensive overview of the role of Maternity Support Workers (MSWs) and their collaboration with midwives to provide exceptional care for mothers, babies, and families. Delivered over 10 weeks through lectures and group work, this introductory course provides a supportive and friendly environment to explore the factors influencing a career in maternity support. You will gain insights into the profession, build personal confidence, and develop practical skills for future growth in this rewarding field. Take this first step towards making a meaningful difference in the lives of mothers, babies and families as a Maternity Support Worker.

Enhance your storytelling skills with our Short Story Workshop. Learn the art of crafting compelling short stories through practical exercises and expert guidance. Ideal for writers of all levels looking to refineIn this course students will explore the art of short story writing, focusing on the fundamental elements that make a compelling narrative. Through guided exercises, discussions and peer feedback, participants will learn how to develop characters, craft engaging plots, build vivid settings and experiment with narrative voice and structure. By the end of the course students will complete a polished short story, showing structure and plot effectively and gain practical skills for refining their storytelling craft. This is a friendly and supportive Writing Workshop where learners are able to receive feedback each week on the previous week's Homework writing assignment. their short fiction writing abilities.

As the National Gallery stages an exhibition of van Gogh’s paintings in the Autumn, it is a good occasion to deepen our understanding of the Dutch master’s art. In this session, we will look at the central role and place given to the natural world in his paintings. In this session we will focus on a specific group of paintings, representing a variety of flowers, skies, fields, blossoming trees, and more. As we discover what meaning van Gogh imbued the natural world with, we will also look at the colours, lines, and brushwork.

This intriguing course delves into the history of epidemics, focusing on the cultural, social, and scientific responses to diseases spread through coughing and sneezing. From the bubonic plague to the flu pandemics and COVID-19, students will explore how societies have understood and managed infectious diseases over time. Through historical case studies, primary sources, and discussions, participants will gain insight into the development of public health measures, the impact of epidemics on societies, and the lessons learned from past outbreaks.

Embark on a transformative journey with this 11-week course focused on building confidenceand language skills for everyday life. Through workshops, discussions, and activities, participants will develop and expand communications skills. The course will cover language and language useage, topics around self esteeem and friendships, identifying personal strengths and weaknesses. There will be an enrolment session at the venue on 5th September between 10-2. Please bring photographic ID, proof of address and proof of benefits (if applicable). Learners cannot attend the course until fully enrolled.

Leading a busy life leaves little room for calm and relaxation. This can make it hard for us to wind down and enjoy the present. But finding these moments of calm is essential for our emotional well-being and mental health. This meditation and mindfulness course is ideal if you want to learn to relax, be present, and alleviate stress in your life. Meditation courses teach us to recognise the importance of conscious thought in our everyday lives. Develop concentration strategies to help focus your mind. Understand the principles of mindfulness. Learn to block out intrusive thoughts and enjoy the present moment.

Leading a busy life leaves little room for calm and relaxation. This can make it hard for us to wind down and enjoy the present. But finding these moments of calm is essential for our emotional well-being and mental health. This meditation and mindfulness course is ideal if you want to learn to relax, be present, and alleviate stress in your life. Meditation courses teach us to recognise the importance of conscious thought in our everyday lives. Develop concentration strategies to help focus your mind. Understand the principles of mindfulness. Learn to block out intrusive thoughts and enjoy the present moment.

Was the introduction of the National Health Service in 1948 a new and revolutionary model of universal health care, or the natural conclusion of a long process of growth in the understanding of illness and disease, and the development of professional skills and infrastructure to treat and support those who were sick? In this course you will discover the background to the decision to provide health care ‘free at the point of delivery’, and learn how we can trace the story from medieval charity to 20th century social investigation and political developments.

Welcome to our enchanting Story Sacks Creation Course! This immersive course is designed for any craft enthusiast who wants to bring children's books to life in an engaging and interactive way. This hands-on course is perfect for anyone who loves to make story time more engaging and educational. Plan and create a unique bag that holds all your themed activities and materials. Plan and create a unique bag that holds all your themed activities and materials. By the end of the course, you will have created your own story sacks, filled with delightful activities and resources to make reading time a magical experience for children. These story sacks make amazing gifts!