COURSES FOR ADULTS

SEPT TO DEC 2010

The Friendly Way to Learn

01952 583886

telfordcentre@wea.org.uk

www.westmidlands.wea.org.uk

Workers' Educational Association

Page 1

What is the WEA? The Workers’ Educational Association (WEA) is the UK’s largest voluntary provider

of adult education and was founded in 1903. It is distinctive in that it is a voluntary movement, run by its own students and

affiliated organisations through Branch and Regional committees. We are committed to providing access to education and learning for adults from

all backgrounds. The WEA believes that education is lifelong and should continue beyond school

leaving age in order to give more opportunities to people to update their skills, keep up with their children or just to meet people and have a go at something new.

The WEA is a charitable organisation, is non-party in politics and non-sectarian. We are funded via grants from the Learning Skills Council, some Local Authorities

and the fees paid by learners. The WEA has been described as a ‘college without walls’, taking education out

into the community where students live and work. We also have a network of specialist Study Centres across the West Midlands which act as the hubs of our educational provision.

Who are WEA courses for? We welcome all adult learners. You don’t need to have previous experience or qualifications for most of our courses – have a look at the course details in this booklet to check.

Please note we have moved our new address is: WEA Office, Ketley Community Centre, Holyhead Road, Ketley. TF1 5AN Ring 01952 583886 Email: telfordcentre@wea.org.uk

Page 2

Contents Day Course Page

Mon Computer Drop in Singing for Fun (Active Retirement) Madeley Drawing & Painting (Active Retirement) Digital Cameras for Absolute Beginners (Active Retirement) Textile Crafts - Oliver Court (Active Retirement) Five Autumn Walks in South & Central Telford (Active Retirement) Singing for Fun (Active Retirement) -Leegomery

5 15 15 16 17 14 17

Tues Computer Drop in Advanced Drawing & Painting (Active Retirement) Dawley Active Retirement Group Drawing & Painting the Human Body Family History for Absolute Beginners (Active Retirement)

6 18 18 7 19

Wed Computing - Preparation for ITQ Computer Drop in Drawing & Painting Tai Chi Ketley (Active Retirement) Tai Chi Stirchley (Active Retirement)

8 9 10 21 21

Fri Speak out on Local Issues 11

Page 3

How much will it cost? Courses are FREE if you are in receipt of the following benefits or an unwaged dependent of someone in receipt of these benefits: Job Seeker’s Allowance Council Tax Benefit Working Tax Credit Income Support Housing Benefit Pension Guarantee Credit

Please note that you will be required to provide a copy of evidence (in confidence if you prefer) of your benefit. Course payments can be made to your tutor at the first session of the class by cash or cheque

Enrolment Sessions

Ketley Community Centre: Tues 14th Sept 10am-4pm Thurs 16th Sept 10am-4pm

Come along to one of these sessions to enrol and

guarantee your place on a course or phone us on 01952 583886 to reserve a place, then enrol at the first session

Page 4

Computer Drop-in Fees The drop-in fee is £85.50. The sessions will need to be prepaid in blocks of 5 sessions (that is, a payment of £42.75. You will be given vouchers for 5 sessions. Give 1 voucher to the tutor each time you attend. When you have used all of these you can then buy another 5. Even if you don’t stay for the full 3 hours of the session, the payment will be the same. You will not be able to attend a session if you haven’t got any vouchers. Learners in receipt of means tested benefits won’t have to pay a fee providing you show some evidence. Learner Support Fund We have a small fund available to help with travel, childcare and some course expenses for those in receipt of benefits or on low incomes. Please speak to your tutor, or Sue or Sheila at the Study Centre (01952 583886) if you’d like more information on this.

Refunds If the WEA cancels a course for any reason, your fee will be refunded in full. Other refunds can only be considered in exceptional circumstances and if a written application is made to the Programme Area Manager for your area to the address on the back cover. Please note that an administration fee will be deducted. Please note we have moved our new address is: WEA Office, Ketley Community Centre, Holyhead Road, Ketley. TF1 5AN Ring 01952 583886 Email: telfordcentre@wea.org.uk

Page 5

Starting Monday 20th Sept 2010

Computer Drop-in 1.00 till 4.00, Ketley Community Centre, Holyhead Road, Ketley10 wks (for fees see info on p4) Free if in receipt of benefit The drop-in provides friendly, flexible learning. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or know quite a bit already but want to learn more, we’ll put together a learning plan specific to you. You can learn at your own pace but with the support of a friendly, highly experienced tutor. If you want to learn how to use the Internet, how to type a CV, how to edit and change your photos, how to make cards and letterheads on your computer, or any number of other things, we can help. If you have work or family commitments that make it difficult for you to attend the whole session the drop in is the perfect answer – you don’t have to stay for the whole lesson. Open to everyone, regardless of existing skills and knowledge. Spaces on computer courses are limited, if you are interested, please ring to book a place Tutor: Sue Blair Learner Comment “I knew nothing at all about computers. I have been helped a lot and look forward to learning more. As I am disabled the help given is really good”

Page 6

Starting Tuesday 21st Sept 2010 Computer Drop-in, 9.30 till 12.30, Ketley Community Centre, Holyhead Road, Ketley (for fees see info on p4) 10 wks Free if in receipt of benefit The drop-in provides friendly, flexible learning. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or know quite a bit already but want to learn more, we’ll put together a learning plan specific to you. You can learn at your own pace but with the support of a friendly, highly experienced tutor. If you want to learn how to use the Internet, how to type a CV, how to edit and change your photos, how to make cards and letterheads on your computer, or any number of other things, we can help. If you have work or family commitments that make it difficult for you to attend the whole session the drop in is the perfect answer – you don’t have to stay for the whole lesson. Open to everyone, regardless of existing skills and knowledge. Spaces on computer courses are limited, if you are interested, please ring to book a place

Tutor: Sue Taylor

Learner Comment “I thoroughly enjoyed my experiences on these courses. I feel that I am learning different skills, sometimes slowly, but I get there in the end”

Page 7

Starting Tuesday 21st Sept 2010 Drawing and Painting the Human Body 7.00pm till 9.00pm, Jubilee House, Madeley 10 wks £57 Free if in receipt of benefit ( see fee info on p3) This class involves exercises in drawing and painting the nude human body. It is a great skill for any artist to practice and develop as it is considered to be one of the most essential, and sometimes challenging, areas of artistic work. This supportive, friendly group, led by a very knowledgeable tutor, is a great way to develop your talents as an artist, whether you are new to it or more experienced. Open to everyone, regardless of existing skills and knowledge. Tutor: Stuart Mann

Page 8

Starting Wednesday 22nd Sept 2010

Computing - Preparation for ITQ 9.30 till 12.30, Ketley Community Centre, Holyhead Road, Ketley £85.50 10 wks Free if in receipt of benefit (see fee info on p3) This course is designed for those who don’t feel ready to apply for an accredited ITQ course, or who don’t need a qualification but would still like to study the units. ITQ is a new computing qualification and replaces New CLAIT. It has been designed by employers to meet the needs of today’s businesses. There is a wide choice of Units to choose from - the Office based applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, email and the Internet to wider issues such as IT Security and IT Maintenance. In addition you can achieve a Multimedia Unit or Using Video or even accredit your skills setting up and using a mobile phone. The course is flexible and tailored to your individual needs. There may be the opportunity to work towards accreditation later in the academic year. Open to people with basic computing skills. Spaces on computer courses are limited. If you are interested, please ring to book a place. Tutor: Sue Taylor

Page 9

Starting Wednesday 22nd Sept 2010 Computer Drop-in, 1.00 till 4.00, Ketley Community Centre, Holyhead Road, Ketley 10 wks Free if in receipt of benefit (for fees see info on p4) The drop-in provides friendly, flexible learning. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or know quite a bit already but want to learn more, we’ll put together a learning plan specific to you. You can learn at your own pace but with the support of a friendly, highly experienced tutor. If you want to learn how to use the Internet, how to type a CV, how to edit and change your photos, how to make cards and letterheads on your computer, or any number of other things, we can help. If you have work or family commitments that make it difficult for you to attend the whole session the drop in is the perfect answer – you don’t have to stay for the whole lesson. Open to everyone, regardless of existing skills and knowledge. Spaces on computer courses are limited, if you are interested, please ring to book a place Tutor: Sue Taylor

Page 10

Starting Wednesday 22nd Sept 2010 Drawing & Painting, 10.00 till 12.00, Wrockwardine Parish Centre (in Infant School grounds), Church Rd, Wrockwardine Wood 10 wks £57 Free if in receipt of benefit (see fee info on p3) Have you always wanted to be able to draw and paint or improve your skills? Well now is your chance! You’ll learn how to use different materials and techniques. No experience is necessary just enthusiasm. A range of materials will be available through the tutor at a low cost. Open to everyone, regardless of existing skills and knowledge. Tutor: Stuart Mann

Learner Comment: “I have surprised myself by the level of art I have achieved”

Page 11

Starting Friday 24th Sept 2010 Speak out on Local Issues The first session will be from 10.30 to 12.30 at Ketley Community Centre Holyhead Road, Ketley FREE Telford is currently undergoing a huge amount of change including regeneration of many areas, new houses being built and possible changes to the use of the hospital. How can you influence this process? We are running an event and a series of short courses to help you to develop the skills and confidence to make your opinions heard on local issues and to become more involved in your community. The first event, on 24 September, will include guest speakers from community action and pressure groups about the importance of campaigning and the differences that ‘ordinary’ people can make. There will also be an opportunity on this day to register for short courses in specific skills such as how to contact your MP and local councillor, how to campaign effectively and legally, how to set up websites and blogs to support a cause, how to construct a campaign letter, using social networking to raise awareness and for contacting others with similar views. Open to everyone, regardless of existing skills and knowledge.

Page 12

Improvers’ Course

Have you already attended the beginners’ course? If you have and would like to refresh your skills and have the

opportunity to practice more lip reading, we will be running daytime courses in both Shrewsbury and Telford from September.

The days and venues have yet to be confirmed, but if you would like us to contact you once we have this information,

please ring us on 01952 583886

or email us telfordcentre@wea.org.uk

This course is only open to those who have already done a beginners’ lip reading course.

Tutor Tom Kane

Page 13

ACTIVE RETIREMENT COURSES

Funding for Active Retirement courses is provided by Telford & Wrekin Council.

This allows all people over the age of 50 to do ONE free course per term.

If you would like to do more than one Active Retirement course, and you are not in receipt of means tested benefits the charge for any other

courses will be £40 for a course of 2 hours a week and £60 for a course of 3 hours a week.

This can be paid in two equal instalments if preferred.

If you would like to talk to us about this please feel free to ring

583886

Please note we have moved our new address is: WEA Office, Ketley Community Centre, Holyhead Road, Ketley.

TF1 AN Ring 01952 583886

Email: telfordcentre@wea.org.uk

Page 14

Starting on Monday 20th Sept 2010 Five Autumn Walks in South & Central Telford 1.30 till 3.30, 5 wks FREE (please see fee info on p13) These five historic walks will take place in Stirchley and the Town Park, Madeley and Aqueduct, Ironbridge and Jackfield, Dawley and Horsehay, with the last one in Coalbrookdale. The aim will be to find out about the local history (people, places and events) over the past two centuries and concentrate on the rich industrial heritage of this area. The walks will last between two and three hours with a refreshment stop. All of the walks will involve some sections which are demanding including short climbs although for the most they will be on easy terrain. Boots or good walking shoes are recommended and protective wet weather clothes. Tutor: Paul Wolfe The first walk will meet at Progress House, Stirchley (next to the library) at 1.00 to complete enrolments before setting off.

Page 15

Starting on Monday 20th Sept 2010 Singing for Fun 1.30 till 3.30, Jubilee House, High St, Madeley. FREE 10 wks (please see fee info on p13) Do you sing in the shower? Have you ever wanted to sing with other people? This is a fun and relaxed singing course. You will soon be able to sing simple songs in harmony with confidence. This course is for beginners and improvers. Open to everyone, regardless of existing skills and knowledge. Tutor: Hanna Lawrence Learner Comment: ““The teaching was excellent and friendship within the group is great”

Drawing & Painting, 1.00 till 3.00, Park Lane Centre, Woodside FREE 10 wks (please see fee info on p13) Have you always wanted to be able to draw and paint? Well now is your chance! You’ll learn how to use different materials and techniques. No experience is necessary just enthusiasm. A range of materials will be available through the tutor at a low cost. Open to everyone, regardless of existing skills and knowledge. Tutor: Stuart Mann Learner Comment “I enjoyed this class. It is fun and I learn a lot”

Page 16

Starting on Monday 20th Sept 2010

Digital Cameras for Absolute Beginners 1.00 till 4.00, Ketley Community Centre, Holyhead Road, Ketley10 wks FREE (please see fee info on p13) This course will teach you to understand the basic elements of using your digital camera. We will take the mystery out of manual camera controls, you will learn how to save photos onto your computer and change their appearance using simple editing software. By the end of this course you will have the confidence and enthusiasm to continue practicing with the basic camera skills you have learnt or move on to one of our more in depth courses. Open to people with basic computing skills. Priority will be given to learners who haven't done this course with us before. Spaces on computer courses are limited. If you are interested, please ring to book a place. Tutor:

Page 17

Starting on Monday 20th Sept 2010 Textile Crafts 10.00 till 12.00, Oliver Court Community Room, FREE 10 wks (please see fee info on p13) Come and try your hand at patchwork, embroidery, silk painting and more. All abilities welcome to this friendly and enjoyable craft group. Come along to try a new craft or revise your skills. Open to everyone, regardless of existing skills and knowledge. Tutor: Marietta Alker

Singing for Fun 10.00 till 12.00, Leegomery Community Centre, Leegate Avenue, Leegomery. FREE 10 wks (please see fee info on info p13) Do you sing in the shower? Have you ever wanted to sing with other people? This is a fun and relaxed singing course. You will soon be able to sing simple songs in harmony with confidence. This course is for beginners and improvers. Open to everyone, regardless of existing skills and knowledge. Tutor: Hanna Lawrence

Page 18

Starting on Tuesday 21st Sept 2010 Advanced Drawing & Painting, 10.00 till 12.00, Jubilee House, High St, Madeley. FREE 10 wks (please see fee info on p13) This course is a fun, friendly class for those who already have some experience but would like the opportunity to further develop their skills in drawing and painting with the guidance of a knowledgeable tutor A range of materials will be available through the tutor at a low cost. Tutor: Stuart Mann

General Active Retirement Group, 10.00 till 12.00, Dawley House, Burton St, Dawley. FREE 10 wks (please see fee info on p13) Would you like to learn a bit more about a wide range of subjects? The Dawley Active Retirement class is long established but always very welcoming to new members and is ideal for those who want the opportunity to learn something new in a friendly, sociable setting. Last year this group learnt about Shakespeare, family and local history and creative writing. The group and the tutor will decide subjects for September onwards but they are always interesting and lively. People over the age of 50 from any part of Telford are very welcome to join this class. Open to everyone, regardless of existing skills and knowledge. Tutor: Simon Fletcher

Page 19

Starting Tuesday 21st Sept 2010 Family History for Absolute Beginners 1.00 till 4.00, Ketley Community Centre, Holyhead Road, Ketley FREE 10 wks (please see fee info on p13) This course will help you discover how fascinating tracing your family history can be. You will be introduced to useful online sources, that will help you trace your ancestors, and shown how to record your findings. Includes basic family history research, plus a visit to a local Family History Centre where you will look at what local and national resources are available, how to order and access additional resources. Learn about the General Register Office, Parish Registers and Bishop Transcripts and Censuses, how to access them and how they can help you to discover your family history. You will also learn the basic ‘do’s & don’ts’ when researching and recording your family history; ordering copies of certificates and Parish Registers and Bishop Transcripts, as well as creating your Family Tree on paper and using Family Tree computer software programs. Priority will be given to learners who haven't done this course with us before. Tutor: Sue Taylor

Page 20

Starting Tuesday 21st Sept 2010 Creative Writing 1.30 till 3.30, Park Lane Centre, Woodside. FREE (please see fee info on p13) Why do writers write? Why do readers read? Why do we tell stories? This course is designed for those who are new to creative writing, but will also be useful to those with some experience who would like to develop their skills. It will help to identify your strengths and interests as a writer by giving you the opportunity to experiment with a number of different types of writing such as fiction, poetry and autobiography. You will learn how to use your own memory and observation as a starting point, how to develop a plot and create a narrative voice. Learners will be expected to produce some written work outside of lesson times. Tutor: Simon Fletcher

Page 21

Starting on Wednesday 22nd Sept 2010

Tai Chi, 10.00 till 12.00, Ketley Community Centre, Holyhead Road, Ketley FREE 10 wks Or 1.00 till 3.00, All Saints Church, Stirchley FREE 10 wks (please see fee info on p13) Basic T’ai Chi promotes body awareness, alignment and improved balance. It can help to improve mobility and reduce stress levels This course of gentle exercise is open to all level of ability, although it will be focussed on beginners and those with limited knowledge. Teaching will be a mixture of whole group and small groups to allow everyone to develop at their own rate. Regardless of your understanding of T’ai Chi, this course will be of interest and benefit your physical and emotional health. Tutor: Craig Swinnerton Learner Comment: “My memory has improved along with my co-ordination and my stress levels have been reduced”

Page 22

WEA courses are open to adults of any age, there are no hidden costs and you don’t need qualifications to come on the courses. These courses offer: • A chance to meet others and socialise with people like you • Regular learning sessions with an experienced, friendly tutor • Advice and support from your tutor and other WEA staff • A range of courses on a variety of subjects • Courses in local community venues on good transport routes,

wherever possible • Progression on to other courses to build your skills and knowledge The WEA offers you a unique range of courses that include a variety of subjects. So if you are thinking about learning, think about the WEA. A lot of our courses are short, take place at convenient times and are easy to fit into your life. Come along and join in!

Computer classes

Ketley Community Centre

Page 23

Who will support me? Learners are supported by their fellow learners, tutors and volunteers. Your Study Centre has information on other local organisations that can help you with careers advice, higher education, benefits etc. You can also contact our Regional Office (0121 237 8120 or www.westmidlands.wea.org.uk) for more general advice. What if I join and don’t like it? You can attend the first session of any course without obligation. The course information in this booklet shows the level and content of each course. At your first session the tutor will introduce what the course will cover and also find out about your skills, knowledge and expectations. Will I be able to access all venues? Wherever possible we use premises that are fully accessible. If you have a disability we will do our best to provide staff and resources to help you to succeed on your course. If possible, it is helpful to let the tutor know before the start of a course if you need any additional support to allow time to organise it before you start. Educational Guidance and Information If you would like more information about a specific course, please contact the Study Centre on 01952 583886 or telfordcentre@wea.org.uk. If we’re not running a course in the subject you’re interested in, or our course is full, we’ll do our best to give you information on other local courses that may meet your needs. We can also provide you with more general information about the WEA, including becoming a member and joining us as a volunteer.

Page 24

The WEA is lucky to have a number of volunteers that are vital to the running of courses and the Study Centre itself. Volunteers can be people from all walks of life. Some have done a WEA course in the past and come back to support tutors on that course, others are new to the WEA but want to develop skills for work or find a new interest after retiring. Volunteers can help in the classroom, be involved with office administration, help distribute course programmes or speak on specialist subjects to other WEA students.

If you would like more information contact: 01952 583886

Volunteers are Gold Dust, we need your help!

Page 25

WEA REGIONAL MEMBERSHIP Do you value the WEA’s work? Would you like to support its development? Do you want to be involved? Then why not become an individual subscription member? As a charity, we depend on individuals and organisations supporting us. By becoming a member, you will do just that, adding your experience and enthusiasm, helping to extend the WEA’s influence and contributing to its viability. Members will have the opportunity to participate in the WEA’s democratic structure and will receive termly regional and national updates as well as an invitation to the Summer Festival. Please contact the Study Centre or Regional Office for an application form. Or download a form from the supporters page on our website (www.westmidlands.wea.org.uk)

Autumn Term Starts week beg 20th Sept 2010

Half Term:

week beginning 25th October 2010

Term Ends: week beginning 29th November 2010

Page 26

INTERESTED IN TUTORING FOR THE WEA?

Are you someone: v with experience in tutoring adults? v with a tutor qualification? v with a keen interest in teaching adult learners?

If so, you might be interested in working for us

We offer:

v good hourly rates v opportunities for training and tutor development v short, termly contracts v membership of an experienced team v …. and much more!

We are particularly interested in applications from Basic Skills, ESOL and ICT tutors. However, the range of programmes the WEA offers learners at branch level, in study centres or other settings is so varied that applications from tutors in a wide range of fields are welcomed.

For an application form and more information please ring: WEA Regional Office - 0121 237 8120

Or download a pack from the tutor page on www.westmidlands.wea.org.uk

Page 27

Enrolment Sessions Ketley Community Centre:

Tues 14th Sept 10am-4pm Thurs 16th Sept 10am-4pm

Come along to one of these sessions to enrol and guarantee your place on a course or phone us on 01952 583886 to reserve a place, then enrol at the first

session

The Active Retirement programme is supported by Telford & Wrekin Council

WEA, Ketley Community Centre, Holyhead Road, Ketley. TF1 5AN

email telfordcentre@wea.org.uk

Regional Website address: www.westmidlands.wea.org.uk National Website address: www.wea.org.uk

Registered charity number: 1112775. Company limited by guarantee in England and Wales no: 2806910.

Registered office: 70 Clifton Street, London EC2A 4HB.