Our courses for the public provide part-time evening and daytime study in a wide range of subjects.
Across the UK there are over 5000 such WEA courses running each year. Most of them are arranged by one of the WEA’s 650 voluntary Branches or local study groups. In this way, these courses are able to reflect the particular needs and interests of learners in their particular locality.
These courses are open to everyone. Most students learn for the stimulus and reward of a shared learning experience rather than to gain qualifications, although accredited courses are available, especially via our partnership with Birkbeck University of London. A wide range of subjects is available including history, archaeology, literature, philosophy, visual arts, music and science.
Example Courses
British New Wave Film: 1958 - 1964
The social and cultural changes of the 1950a produced controversial playwrights and novelists. Learners consider some of the screen adaptations of their work by innovative directors.
Stanmore Library
Life in London 1901-1951
In tracing London’s dramatic history in the first half of the 20th century, this session we will examiner the new industries which spread around the outskirts of London as well looking at life in its booming suburbs.
Fairkytes Art Centre - Hornchurch
Writing for Pleasure?
We writers have a great privilege. We can make peace, make war, make love albeit vicariously. Join us in creating a new world in your imagination and having fund in the process. All levels welcome.
HAVS - Harrow
The first step is to find your nearest branch or one that is convenient for you by using the map of London branches provided, or by contacting the Regional Office on 020 7426 1950.
Some branches will have a list of example or up-to-date courses listed, and full details or a brochure can be obtained via the contact number provided.
What happens when you join a course?
For Branch and University courses, use the first session to see if the course suits you. In our community-based courses, the course will start from the first session. On all courses, our tutors will explain what is about while, through discussion, helping you to establish personal and group aims.
In the second session, you will complete the enrolment form and pay any fees for the course. There are concessions depending on learners circumstances; please discuss any needs you may have with the tutor to find out if you qualify. Generally, on community-based courses, you will complete this process in the first session. You will have a learner record form on which your proposed outcomes are recorded and this form is used to help you reflect on your learning.
The tutor will provide handouts and use other materials as the course progresses. If relevant to your course, the tutor will also provide booklists and and other information to help you get the most from your studies.
At the end of a course, the tutor will ask you to complete the record form and to briefly describe what you have learned and the quality of the teaching. This record helps us to judge how successfully learners achieve their goals and how the course can be improved. The tutor will give you feed back throughout the course on your progress and offer suggestions as to what you might like to do next at the end of the course.
If you are on an accredited course, the tutor will support you with any assignments that you are expected to complete to achieve your goals successfully.
