Other life skills classes

This course is funded by the Department for Education and only open to residents living in non devolved authorities. Conversation with Cooking is a 12 session ESOL course designed to build confidence, wellbeing and communication skills through the theme of everyday cooking. Each two hour class focuses on speaking and listening activities where learners share cooking advice, explore healthy recipes and talk about food from different cultures. Learners practise useful vocabulary, follow simple instructions and take part in supportive conversations about ingredients, meal preparation and healthy eating. The course promotes social connection, confidence building and positive wellbeing by encouraging learners to share experiences, learn new dishes and enjoy communicating in English in a relaxed, friendly environment.

This course is funded by the Department for Education and only open to residents living in non devolved authorities. Creative Arts courses give you the chance to explore your creativity in a relaxed and supportive space. Creative Arts includes a wide range of activities such as drawing, painting, mosaics, sewing, craft, and creative writing. You don’t need any previous experience, although the Foundations in Creative Arts course can be a helpful starting point if you’re new to creative learning. In the course, you will be introduced to practical creative arts skills through simple, accessible activities that help you build technique, confidence, and artistic understanding. You will explore different materials, tools, and processes while learning how to apply core creative methods. Each session focuses on building practical skills, perhaps trying out new techniques, and developing your own personal approach to making. You will be encouraged to experiment with ideas, refine your skills, and grow your creative interests at a pace that feels right for you. By the end of the course, you will have created a series of small pieces that show your developing skills. You will also gain the knowledge and inspiration to continue exploring creative arts independently or move on to other skills based or community learning courses.

This course is funded by the Department for Education and only open to residents living in non devolved authorities. Conversation with Cooking is a 12 session ESOL course designed to build confidence, wellbeing and communication skills through the theme of everyday cooking. Each two hour class focuses on speaking and listening activities where learners share cooking advice, explore healthy recipes and talk about food from different cultures. Learners practise useful vocabulary, follow simple instructions and take part in supportive conversations about ingredients, meal preparation and healthy eating. The course promotes social connection, confidence building and positive wellbeing by encouraging learners to share experiences, learn new dishes and enjoy communicating in English in a relaxed, friendly environment.

This course is funded by the Department for Education and only open to residents living in non devolved authorities. This practical course helps you build essential digital skills for everyday life and work. You will gain confidence in using laptops and other digital devices, keeping devices updated, and applying basic security settings. You will also learn to create and manage documents using Word, access Microsoft 365, download apps safely and set up and use email effectively. The course also covers browsers, websites, and online safety, including recognising scams and protecting passwords. Finally, you will explore secure online transactions and payment methods, ensuring you can navigate the digital world safely and independently.

This course is funded by the Department for Education and only open to residents living in non devolved authorities. This course helps you understand your mental health and learn simple, practical ways to look after yourself. You will explore what mental health means using clear NHS guidance, and you will talk about common issues like stress, anxiety, and low mood. You will try easy self help tools such as breathing exercises, grounding techniques, and short wellbeing activities recommended by the NHS. You will also learn how to spot early warning signs, choose small everyday actions that improve your mood, and find safe, trusted sources of support. By the end of the course, you will feel more confident using practical skills to manage your own mental health.

This course is funded by the Department for Education and only open to residents living in non devolved authorities. This course guides you through practical craft activities that support mindfulness and wellbeing. It is ideal if you want to explore creativity in a relaxed and supportive environment. You don’t need any previous experience. You will take part in hands-on activities such as drawing, painting, collage, simple textiles, or working with recycled and natural materials. The focus is on fully engaging in the creative process, helping you to concentrate, relax, and enjoy a sense of achievement. You will also learn how crafting can support mindfulness by encouraging reflection, being present, and expressing yourself. As you work, you will develop skills in patience, creativity, problem solving, and focus—either independently or with others.

This course is funded by the Department for Education and only open to residents living in non devolved authorities. This practical course helps you build essential digital skills for everyday life and work. You will gain confidence in using laptops and other digital devices, keeping devices updated, and applying basic security settings. You will also learn to create and manage documents using Word, access Microsoft 365, download apps safely and set up and use email effectively. The course also covers browsers, websites, and online safety, including recognising scams and protecting passwords. Finally, you will explore secure online transactions and payment methods, ensuring you can navigate the digital world safely and independently.

This course is funded by the Department for Education and only open to residents living in non devolved authorities. This course helps you understand your mental health and learn simple, practical ways to look after yourself. You will explore what mental health means using clear NHS guidance, and you will talk about common issues like stress, anxiety, and low mood. You will try easy self help tools such as breathing exercises, grounding techniques, and short wellbeing activities recommended by the NHS. You will also learn how to spot early warning signs, choose small everyday actions that improve your mood, and find safe, trusted sources of support. By the end of the course, you will feel more confident using practical skills to manage your own mental health.

This course is funded by the Department for Education and only open to residents living in non devolved authorities. Preparation for Work in Hospitality is a welcoming and practical course designed for anyone interested in starting a career in cafés, restaurants or hotels. You will explore different job roles, customer service expectations and workplace behaviours. You’ll take part in activities that build confidence, communication and problem‑solving skills. You will also complete tasks such as reading rotas, understanding shift patterns, and working out menu prices. By the end of the course, you will have developed the skills and knowledge needed for hospitality roles and created a personal plan for your next steps.

This course is funded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and is only available to residents living within the Greater Manchester Combined Authority area. This beginner-friendly sewing course helps you build confidence and practical skills in machine and hand sewing. You’ll learn to use a sewing machine, work with different fabrics, and follow commercial patterns to create simple items like a tote bag. The course also introduces basic business skills, including pricing, marketing, and planning a product line. It is Ideal for those preparing for work, further learning, or community engagement. This course supports your journey into creative enterprise and personal development.