WEA courses

One of the most fascinating aspects of the history of ideas is learning how ideas have a life of their own, influencing society and culture through successive generations in different ways. In this 6-week course we’ll focus on a different important and influential question each week. We cover philosophy, literature, science and history. We’ll read and discuss selected extracts which will be circulated beforehand. The course covers a sweep of over 2000 years, from the ancient Greeks to modern times.

There are several issues which are of great moral concern in contemporary society. This course considers some of these issues. The issues are Immigration, Capital Punishment, World Hunger, Economic Justice, and War. We’ll arrive to begin with at an understanding of the issue and then consider some of the academic discussion surrounding it. No prior specialist knowledge is required to attend this course.

The "Entry Level 3 English Writing" program is designed to enhance your writing skills while introducing you to basic computer usage and online learning platforms. This course covers essential computer skills, navigating the Canvas platform, and achieving the Entry Level 3 English Writing qualification. Through interactive lessons and practical exercises, you'll gain confidence in using technology and improving your writing abilities.

We will explore the meaning and our experience of mental distress from four very different viewpoints; the Biological or medical model, various psychological approaches, the societal perspective and a spiritual one. Each has something to offer, none has the whole story. This is an introductory level course, so no previous knowledge is assumed. It is suitable for those on a recovery journey, for those seeking to use their own experience to help others or for those simply curious about mental health. It follows on from part 1 but it is not essential to have completed that to do this course. Teaching is a mix of short presentations of key ideas, challenging open questions and lots of open discussion in small groups online.

"Step Into Work" is a comprehensive program designed to equip you with the essential skills needed for job hunting. This course covers writing effective cover letters, creating standout CVs, and mastering interview techniques. Through practical workshops and expert guidance, you'll learn how to present yourself confidently to potential employers and increase your chances of landing the job you desire. This course will help you examine your current skills and qualities and how they transfer to job related tasks. You’ll need access to the internet to take this ‘Step into Work’ program as our tutors use the WEA’s digital learning portal, Canvas, to send you important information and tasks.

Join our ESOL Conversation Café at Clare House, designed to enhance your English language skills in a friendly and supportive environment. This weekly session provides an excellent opportunity to practice speaking, improve your vocabulary, and build confidence in conversational English. By participating in these sessions, you'll be well-prepared to advance into other ESOL courses, further enhancing your language proficiency and opening up new educational and professional opportunities.

This course will help you if English is not your first language and if you are struggling to understand the vocabulary needed to pass the UK Driving Theory Test. During the course, we will cover the English technical language you are likely to need. You will also learn about the language used in the Highway Code and about transport in the UK. We will also cover road signs, road markings and the rules of driving. The course will help you to feel more confident that you are ready to apply for the Theory Test.

Are you looking to upskill for employment as well as learning ESOL? Then attend this course and boost your employability skills as well as the usual English skills; speaking, listening, reading and writing. If you’re entering the workforce for the first time or after a long break, this course can teach you essential skills employers look for and prepare you for the transition. Also, if you are new to the UK and want to upskill yourself and learn more about the workforce here in the UK. There are various topics covered over the 3 consecutive courses; - Life in the UK - Jobs and work in the UK - Driving theory - Confidence building Feel confident stepping into the workforce. This course will provide you with the soft skills required to get that job and give you the confidence and self-esteem to sell what you have to offer to potential employers.

This course will aim to explore the lives of some extraordinary Russian women and their contributions to World History and Culture through various mediums. The women mentioned is this course not only contributed heavily to Russian history and culture but also the world.

Take your first steps towards learning how to communicate in English in a friendly and welcoming class. Please note that this class is only available for learners whose children attend Woodnook Primary School for safeguarding reasons. This is the second course of two which will help you to learn ESOL whilst your children are in class. The course will run alongside in term 3 and continue to the summer holidays. The course will test your English level at the start and then the tutor will work with you to improve your language skills including; speaking, listening, reading and writing.