If you are looking for work, need to get a better job, or want to improve your work skills, the WEA is here for you. We have a great track record of helping people like you gain the skills and confidence they need for work. Best of all, most of our work skills courses are free*.    

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You can improve your job opportunities with the WEA.  

Reach your potential  

We know you can reach your potential in three simple steps:  

  • Build your confidence and essential skills  
  • Develop skills related to specific types of jobs  
  • Progress in your current job by boosting your current skills and learning new ones  

Supportive classes

The WEA and our team of supportive tutors are here for you at every step.  Whether you’re a jobseeker, have recently been made redundant or you simply want to move up the ladder, we have a course for you.   

Improve your English, maths or digital skills to earn more money.  Find courses in health and social care, community interpreting, schools and childcare and more.   

Find out more about job hunting, take courses to become more employable or change your career. Boost your employability skills and stand out on that job application.    

Learn your way with the WEA

Take a short, informal course or gain a national qualification. Learning in a classroom, in a work setting or at home, you’ll always have the same great support from your tutor.  

There’s something for everyone.

*Over 90% of applicants for skills courses do not need to pay a fee. Subject to status  - courses are free for unemployed people, job seekers and people on low wage. If you do not qualify you will be alerted during the application process.

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Personal Development: Study Skills - Level 3 Award in Education and Teaching

This distance learning course, using face to face online sessions using canvas the WEA's online learning platform, and is for anyone who wants to develop teaching skills and explore the roles and responsibilities of those in adult education. There is a skills check for the L3 Award in Education & Training course, our skills check is not a test, it is a way for us to help you start at the right place

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 14/05/2024 -
Wed 15/05/2024
Times:
10:00am - 1:00pm
Duration:
2 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Sophie Fowkes
Course code:
Q00015099
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £22.20

SWAP: Introduction to working with Animals

Are you interested in working with animals? Join this SWAP course to learn about a range of animal related jobs. You will consider positive and challenging aspects of the roles and ways into these careers. In addition, we will also be looking at basic care needs of pets such as dogs and cats. You will be working with your fellow learners to enhance your confidence and knowledge. There will be plenty of opportunity in the course to share your ideas.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 14/05/2024 -
Tue 18/06/2024
Times:
9:30am - 11:30am
Duration:
8 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Paula Hellal
Course code:
Q00015165
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £25.00

Understanding the Role of a Community Interpreter

Are you bilingual? Ever thought about using your language skills to help out in the community? Did you know you can get many jobs with languages? If you speak English and another language fluently, you could make a great community interpreter. This community interpreter course gives you an introduction to the language and interpreting skills needed for this type of work. It can teach you foundational concepts to test your community interpreting skills informally with family or friends. This course can prepare you to help members of your family or community to overcome language barriers in their everyday lives. It can also help you decide if you’re interested in pursuing community interpreting jobs.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 14/05/2024 -
Tue 04/06/2024
Times:
9:30am - 2:30pm
Duration:
3 sessions
Location:
Health Resource Centre (Newcastle upon T
Adelaide Terrace
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE4 8BE
Tutor:
Maryam Knowles
Course code:
Q00015219
How you'll learn:
In venue
Status:
Waiting list (Join waiting list)
Fee range
Free to £42.00

UNISON NE: Professional Development - Cultural Integration in the Workplace

A workshop designed for staff working for Sunderland City Council and Unison Members. Useful if you are new to working within the UK, or if you work with team members who are from outside of the UK. This is an engaging, fun, 2-hour interactive workshop. The aim is to promote a fulfilling, positive workplace experience through reducing fears and cultural barriers. You will learn useful tips to help promote better understanding and clear communication with your colleagues. Delivered by a tutor who has personal experience of adapting to life and work within the UK and the challenges and rewards that can be brought by the experience.

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 15/05/2024 -
Wed 15/05/2024
Times:
2:30pm - 4:30pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
SCAS HQ Building
Carremere Road
Sunderland
SR2 9TQ
Tutor:
Marina Fasa
Course code:
Q00014519
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee:
Free

WEA Membership

For just £15 a year, you can:

  • Join our popular, award-winning weekly lecture series,
  • Access an archive of over 100 past lectures,
  • Get priority online and phone booking for autumn courses (England only),
  • Receive our Highway magazine and access back issues,
  • Attend our members’ annual conference.

Just add us to your basket to sign up today!

Membership Information

Duration:
12 months
Fee:
WEA Membership

Personal Development: DWP CV Writing workshop

The CV writing workshop will empower Department for Work and Pensions claimants to create a new CV or update an existing CV with the help of an experienced tutor. You will learn the basic concepts and importance of an effective CV, ensuring that it includes personal details, information on education, work experience, key skills and references. Where appropriate you will receive support to tailor CVs to specific job roles with a view to improve prospects for being invited for an interview. It will be an opportunity to obtain individual feedback, review drafted CVs and address any individual queries and concerns.

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 15/05/2024 -
Wed 15/05/2024
Times:
10:30am - 1:00pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
DWP Wellington Street Job Centre
Crown Buildings
60 Wellington Street
Leicester
LE1 6DS
Tutor:
Ayman Ali
Course code:
Q00015433
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £10.50

Personal Development: DWP What do I do next?

This course equips DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) customers with essential skills in accessing, understanding, and utilising information, advice, and guidance services effectively. customers will learn how to navigate the DWP system confidently, accessing vital resources and support to enhance their employment prospects, financial stability, and overall well-being. Through interactive sessions, learners will develop skills in interpreting complex information, seeking appropriate advice, and making informed decisions tailored to their unique circumstances. From job searching strategies to financial planning tips, this course empowers DWP customers to take control of their future with knowledge and confidence.

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 15/05/2024 -
Wed 15/05/2024
Times:
1:00pm - 2:30pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
DWP Wellington Street Job Centre
Crown Buildings
60 Wellington Street
Leicester
LE1 6DS
Tutor:
Ayman Ali
Course code:
Q00015461
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £6.30

Pre Entry Digital Skilks: An introduction to using computers and digital devices

Welcome to Introduction to Digital Devices! This course is designed for beginners who want to learn the basics of using digital devices effectively. In today's world, digital devices are ubiquitous, from smartphones and tablets to laptops and desktop computers. Understanding how to navigate and utilize these devices is essential for both personal and professional endeavours.

Course Information

Dates:
Wed 15/05/2024 -
Wed 24/07/2024
Times:
1:30pm - 3:30pm
Duration:
11 sessions
Location:
Andalus Community Centre
35-37 Exchange Street
Sheffield
S2 5TR
Tutor:
Benjamin Warner
Course code:
Q00015599
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £92.40

Pre Entry Digital Skills

Learn to use digital devices and gain essential computer skills for professional and personal use. Digital training helps you move with the times and not get left behind. This beginner’s course is for anyone who wants to learn digital skills, no matter your current knowledge. This course is appropriate for complete beginners, so don’t worry if this is all new to you. Learn to use word processing software and fill out online forms in this Digital Skills course. Understand how to use email and search for information online. This digital skills training also teaches you how to shop online securely. You’ll understand online safety and data storage

Course Information

Dates:
Thu 16/05/2024 -
Thu 16/05/2024
Times:
12:30pm - 3:00pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Riverside Community Health Project (Newc
Carnegie Building
Atkinson Road
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE4 8XS
Tutor:
Rupa Marwaha
Course code:
Q00014992
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
4 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £10.50

Pre Entry Digital Skills

Learn to use digital devices and gain essential computer skills for professional and personal use. Digital training helps you move with the times and not get left behind. This beginner’s course is for anyone who wants to learn digital skills, no matter your current knowledge. This course is appropriate for complete beginners, so don’t worry if this is all new to you. Learn to use word processing software and fill out online forms in this Digital Skills course. Understand how to use email and search for information online. This digital skills training also teaches you how to shop online securely. You’ll understand online safety and data storage

Course Information

Dates:
Thu 16/05/2024 -
Thu 16/05/2024
Times:
9:30am - 11:30am
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Robert Stewart Memorial Hall (Newcastle
89 Wingrove Road
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE4 9BU
Tutor:
Elaine Swan
Course code:
Q00015016
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
2 places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £8.40

Award in Education and Training Level 3

Kickstart your education career with this introductory teaching qualification. Experience the buzz of learning environments and get a view into the profession. Learn essential teaching skills and open doors to further education jobs in this Education and Training course. This course prepares you for teaching jobs working with adults. These can include roles as a tutor, learning assistant, teaching assistant, or trainer in universities, Sixth Form colleges, or other adult learning settings. This Level 3 Award in Teaching and Education is the first step towards a fulfilling career in teaching. If you want to get a teaching qualification, this foundational course can give you a taste of the industry before you move onto higher level qualifications.

Course Information

Dates:
Thu 16/05/2024 -
Wed 10/07/2024
Times:
10:00am - 1:00pm
Duration:
17 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Sophie Fowkes
Course code:
Q00015060
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £300.00