Learning online to build connections

Before she became terminally ill, Nicki worked as an assistant tutor at a local arts education charity in Cambridge. She enjoyed helping those living in the local community to learn new skills and discover their artistic side.  

When lockdown hit, Nicki’s illness meant she needed to shield earlier than others which had a huge impact on her mental health.   

“Life before I started learning with the WEA was filled with anxiety and isolation because I was shielding from the covid pandemic. I knew I had to find something to calm me down and fill my days with something other than doom scrolling the news.” 

It was through a friendly group chat Nicki found the WEA and decided it was just what she needed.  

“This group chat was a lifeline at the time and a way for people to get through the day. I visited the WEA website and it was like a new world had opened up!   

I signed up for a single art class which had an emphasis on health and wellbeing. It changed my life. I've done at least 20 painting, drawing and printmaking courses since then and I attend most of the weekly member lectures.” 

Not only do the art courses help Nicki to learn new techniques and improve her skills, they also offer a sense of community. “Many of the learners on my courses come back each term and we have developed friendships. We encourage each other so much. I've made connections with local artists and have used my skills to help local campaigns and mutual aid projects. My family and friends are happy I have a new purpose in life.” 

Speaking of her own health and wellbeing Nicki says, “Courses for people who can't work are equally as important as those for people who can work. I used to be in intensive care once a year with five hospital admissions a year. In four years of learning with the WEA I have only had one admission.” 

“My days have meaning now. My tutors are brilliant and inspire me to improve. I teach what I learn to my young grandchildren.  

I'm leaving a legacy of artwork and learning to my family and I'm still alive, despite being three years past the time I was expected to be gone. I live in a hospital bed at home but my world is so much bigger thanks to online learning.”