Brief Description:

The CAE course is intended for learners with an upper intermediate / lower advanced level of English. It aims to prepare you for the Cambridge English: Advanced examination, concentrating on the five skills: reading, writing, grammar, listening and speaking.  If, however, you do not wish to take the exam, you can just concentrate on improving your skills.

If you would like to take the CAE exam, you will need to register. This is not through Adult Learn and Train. To access information on exam centres offering this qualification/ booking deadlines and dates for the exam please go onto the website: https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/find-a-centre/find-an-exam-centre   You will also be able to access exam practice papers.

This term is priced for 10 weeks.  You will probably find, like most learners, that you need more than one term’s tuition to be prepared for the exam (if you choose to enter for it). If this is the case you will be offered the opportunity to re-enrol and pay for another term.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED?

You should have completed First Certificate before joining this class. If you have not recently passed the First Certificate an assessment test is needed for placement purposes. To book an appointment, call the office on 01223 712340.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

By the end of the course you will
• enjoy a higher level of communication and greater confidence in speaking English
• have a wider and more varied vocabulary
• have explored and practised different writing styles and techniques
• have an extended knowledge of grammar

EXAMINATION FEES

Your tutor will advise you on venues, dates and prices of exams. This course only covers tuition in preparation for exam – no exam fee is included in the cost of the course.

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING

A4 file, notebook and pen / pencil

ON COMPLETION OF THIS COURSE, WHAT MIGHT YOUR NEXT STEPS BE?

Your tutor will advise you.
The Adult Learn and Train office is able to give course information or search for alternative courses for you.

Brief Description

The course will introduce you to the basics of Chinese pronunciation, characters, sentence structures and cultural background through a variety of reading, writing, listening and speaking materials and activities. After completing the course, you will be expected to be able to engage in simple daily conversations on the topics covered. You are also encouraged to write Chinese characters and get a better appreciation of their components and their often ideographic origin. The course is priced for 10 weeks (one term); to complete the full course and cover all the learning outcomes listed below you will need to attend 3 terms (there is no obligation to attend more than one term).

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

This course will be in its second term, learners will be expected to have covered the majority of the first-term outcomes – see below. If you are unsure, the office can put you in contact with the tutor.

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to

Term 1:

• Learn the Chinese Pinyin; origin of the Chinese characters.
• Greet people, introduce yourself and talk about your family.
• Meet people and ask them questions with regard to their nationality, native language.
• Talk about and order food
• Talk about one’s job

Term 2:

• Ask and tell people where you are.
• Learn numbers in Chinese and the cultural meanings they may have.
• Tell the time, talk about your routines.
• Say the days of the week, dates and months of the year.
• Talk about one’s age and birthday.

Term 3:

• Talk about weather.
• Talk about hobbies.
• Money – and learn to bargain in Chinese!
• Shopping

Extra costs on the course for example, textbook, materials or equipment

Recommended but not required:

• Kuaile Hanyu Student Book Vol 1: ISBN-10: 7107171267; People’s Education Press (approx. £15 from Amazon), a very good textbook with the drawback that there is only an English translation for the vocabulary but not for the dialogues.
• Kuaile Hanyu Workbook Vol 1: ISBN-10: 710720516
• Pocket Oxford Chinese Dictionary: English-Chinese / Chinese-English; 5th edition, 2022
• Easy Learning Mandarin Chinese Characters: Trusted Support for Learning (Collins Easy Learning) ISBN-10: 0008196044 (approx. £10 from Amazon)

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen and Paper

Recommended: · Get a taste of the origin of Chinese characters by visiting: https://hanziyuan.net/

Download this app and play around with it: Pleco

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

Enrol on the Chinese (Mandarin) Beginners 2 course in January.

Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.

Drawing Skills Brief Description:

Drawing skills can be done for pleasure, relaxation or with a more defined purpose. The course will explore what drawing is, what it can be for and why we do it. We will cover practical aspects of drawing mark making, creating the illusion of 3 Dimensions, the use of pattern and design and the formal arrangement of tone and shape to create an image. We will explore colour, different media, the theoretical side of drawing and how to look, examine and see what is actually there.

Previous Experience needed:

No previous experience necessary, the course is designed for all levels.

Aims of the course:

• The course will enable learners to see in new ways, changing perception of the visual world
• Develop a visual language through experimentation and widen understanding of what drawing is
• Gain in confidence through problem solving

Course Outcomes:

• Identify a range of marks to get the effect they want
• Identify shapes and tones to create an image
• Use line and colour to express themselves
• Select what is important and what to leave out
• Explore a range of approaches to develop a style.

EXTRA COSTS ON THE COURSE FOR EXAMPLE TEXT BOOK, MATERIALS OR EQUIPMENT:

Most materials will be provided but advice will be given on any additional requirements.

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING:

Nothing for the first session

ON COMPLETION OF THIS COURSE, WHAT MIGHT YOUR NEXT STEPS BE?

The tutor will advise you.
The Adult Learn and Train office is able to give course information or search for alternative courses for you.

Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturdays and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.

Brief Description:

Drawing can be done for pleasure, relaxation or with a more defined purpose. The course will explore what drawing is, what it can be for and why we do it. We will cover practical aspects of drawing, mark making and creating the illusion of 3 Dimensions. We will also explore different media and how to look, examine and see what is actually there.

Aims:

• The course will enable learners to see in new ways, changing perception of the visual world.
• Develop a visual language through experimentation and widen understanding of what drawing is.
• Gain in confidence through problem solving.

Outcomes:

• Identify a range of marks to get the effect they want.
• Identify shapes and tones to create an image.
• Use line and tone to express themselves.
• Select what is important and what to leave out.

Materials needed for the day:

Most materials will be provided but advice will be given on any additional requirements.

Experience needed:

No previous experience necessary, the course is designed for all levels.

Brief Description:

Come along to the East Asian Painting course if you want to explore, in a relaxed environment, a variety of Chinese and Japanese watercolour techniques, such as a study of Calligraphy and how its techniques are applied to painting. You will also learn from a wide selection of past masters and be able to develop your skills in further courses. Group exhibitions are held every two years, visits to galleries organised for those interested.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience necessary. All ability levels welcome.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course participants will be able to:
• Demonstrate how to control the brush with confidence
• Apply painting techniques – Bamboo, Orchids, Chrysanthemums and Plum Blossom
• Demonstrate painting an original landscape in ink and colour

Extra costs on the course for example text book, materials or equipment:

East Asian (Chinese/Japanese) brushes, paper and watercolours. (Watercolour brushes are not suitable). The tutor will advise in the first class.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Any East Asian painting materials you have already such as brushes and paper.

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

The tutor will advise you on future courses or day schools.
The Adult Learn and Train office is able to give course information or search for alternative courses for you.

Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturdays and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.

Brief Description:

This Basic English course in Cambridge is aimed at learners who only have some basic English. The course will help you to understand and speak English with more confidence and ability. Lessons will focus on language needed for daily life in the UK and topics will include travel, shopping, visiting the doctor, where you live, going to school, sport, and so on. There will be practice for social conversations, and you will improve your vocabulary and learn to speak grammatically. The lessons will include some basic grammar, speaking and listening, pronunciation work, reading and writing. There is no formal exam associated with this course.

The course is funded per term; you may find, as most learners do, that you will need more than one term to be prepared for any higher level courses or future exams (if you choose to enter for them). If this is the case you will be offered the opportunity to re-enrol and pay for another term (or if still available we may be able to fund you again).

Eligibility to gain a funded place:

You must be over 19 years old and have lived in the UK / an EU country for the last 3 years, assessment before placement is essential; please call the office on 01223 712340 for further information and other funding requirements. There will be some paperwork to complete. Learners are encouraged to get help from a friend/family member who can translate the wording and meanings.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Some basic English is needed. An assessment test is needed for placement purposes. To book an appointment call the office on 01223 712340.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will be able to:

•  Introduce yourself, formal and informal greetings. Asking questions about someone and where they’re from, numbers and days of the week.
• Family and friends vocabulary, possessive and descriptive adjectives, describing people and things, making questions and answers.
• Describing where you live, local area and facilities, directions and adverbs of place.
• Jobs and places of work, third person, asking and answering questions about occupations.
• Talking about actions happening now, feelings and emotions, using common gestures. Travel vocabulary.

Extra costs on the course for example text book, materials or equipment:

No course book is required. The tutor will supply you with photocopied material.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Notebook and pen/pencil

Examination Fees:

There is no exam attached to this course

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

The tutor will advise you.
The Adult Learn and Train office is also able to give course information or search for alternative courses for you.

Brief Description:

This Basic English course in Cambridge is aimed at learners who only have some basic English. The course will help you to understand and speak English with more confidence and ability. Lessons will focus on language needed for daily life in the UK and topics will include travel, shopping, visiting the doctor, where you live, going to school, sport, and so on. There will be practice for social conversations, and you will improve your vocabulary and learn to speak grammatically. The lessons will include some basic grammar, speaking and listening, pronunciation work, reading and writing. There is no formal exam associated with this course.

The course is funded per term; you may find, as most learners do, that you will need more than one term to be prepared for any higher level courses or future exams (if you choose to enter for them). If this is the case you will be offered the opportunity to re-enrol and pay for another term (or if still available we may be able to fund you again)

Eligibility to gain a funded place:

You must be over 19 years old and have lived in the UK / an EU country for the last 3 years, assessment before placement is essential; please call the office on 01223 712340 for further information and other funding requirements. There will be some paperwork to complete. Learners are encouraged to get help from a friend/family member who can translate wording and meaning

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Some basic English is needed. An assessment test is needed for placement purposes. To book an appointment call the office on 01223 712340.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will be able to:

• Greetings and introductions. Asking and answering questions about yourself and others. Subject pronouns, countries and nationalities.
• Jobs and occupations, daily routines, everyday language, numbers and time expressions for what you do.
• Daily routines, asking and answering questions about everyday activities, prepositions of place.
• Weekend activities, making invitations and plans, use of and position of adverbs of frequency.
• Transport and travel, shopping and asking for what you need, agreeing and disagreeing.

Extra costs on the course for example text book, materials or equipment:

No course book is required. The tutor will supply you with photocopied material.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Notebook and pen/pencil

Examination Fees:

There is no exam attached to this course

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

The tutor will advise you.
The Adult Learn and Train office is also able to give course information or search for alternative courses for you.

Brief description:

Our English for work courses are suitable for learners where English is not their first language.   

This course is focused on people wanting to improve their English language skills for work. The level of this English for work course is intermediate. 

We will look at how to organise and look at a letter of application, use vocabulary for jobs and industries and make suggestions and give advice to someone. 

Learners will have an opportunity to give a presentation and learn to describe charts, graphs and talk about changes. We will look at how to send a business email and write a formal letter. We will also look at how to use polite telephone English and exchange opinions (how to be comfortable in agreeing, disagreeing and giving opinions). Learners will learn have to and don’t have to and common business expressions and vocabulary. We will also look at Prepositions of time, making appointments over the telephone and how to change appointments. Learners will also look at language used to report speech and questions, for example, ‘did anyone call?’. Finally, explaining and giving reasons for things, expressing feelings, likes and dislikes as well as giving and responding to advice. No textbook is needed, and course materials will be provided.  

The course is funded per term; you may find, as most learners do, that you will need more than one term to be prepared for any higher level courses or future exams (if you choose to enter for them). If this is the case you will be offered the opportunity to re-enrol and pay for another term (or if still available we may be able to fund you again).

This course is funded through Cambridgeshire Skills: See funding eligibility below:

If you are 19 or over, have lived in an EU country / the UK for 3 or more years and are at the right level, full funding is available. You will need to supply proof of identity and full attendance is required; you will also need to complete an enrolment form so that the office can apply for the funding and complete an individual learning plan weekly with your tutor. 

If you are not eligible for funding but would benefit from the course, you can attend by paying a tuition fee of £145 (£87 concession) per 10 week term.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

To confirm this course is the correct level for you an assessment test will be needed for placement purposes. To book an appointment, call the office on 01223 712340 or email office@adultlearning.education

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course you will be able to:

• Introductions, changing families and family life, future forms – different uses of will/ be going to and present continuous, personality adjectives.
• Sports Superstitions. Questionnaire about sporting activity and attitudes, using narrative tenses to relate a story in the past.
• Money vocabulary and spending habits, Present Perfect vs. simple Past, making and answering questions in both tenses.
• Stereotypes – cultural and gender stereotypes discussion, agreeing and disagreeing, use of articles, collocation of adjectives and prepositions.
• Success and Failure, talking about learning experiences and past abilities using can, could and be able to, adjectives ending in ed or ing.

Extra costs on the course for example text book, materials or equipment:

The tutor will advise in the first lesson

For the first session you will need to bring:

A notebook and pen and pencil.

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

The college has many English for work levels, talk with your tutor who will advise you.

The Adult Learn and Train office is able to give course information or search for alternative courses for you.

Brief Description

I love the softness and variety of visual effects that you can achieve with felt.  I use an easy relaxing technique to make felt pieces that does not result in aching arms, just beautiful work! Come and try it out, it’s fun and you can make new friends along the way. On the first day, you will create a suitable design and colour scheme for this project so that you will understand how to design your own piece in the future. Then you will  make some pre-felt samples, learn how to blend colours and use resists.  On the second day, you will combine these ideas together resulting in a unique, original and beautiful bag.

By the end of the day you will have learned:

• design skills
• a brief history of felt / makers
• pre-felt methods
• fulling techniques
• finishing methods

EXTRA COSTS ON THE COURSE (YOU WILL NEED TO PROVIDE):

• 100g merino wool (maximum) in white plus a small amount of colour/colours (300g max in total)
• an apron which is fabric or plastic coated.
• 2 pieces of bubble wrap (approx. 30x30cm each)
• 2 old towels
• a small bamboo or grass table mat or a polystyrene tube
• a small bowl
• carders if you have them

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

A follow-on two day workshop in needle felt in August.

Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.

Brief Description

In this workshop you will learn how to make your own seasonal Christmas wreath using fresh foliage from scratch. You will begin by creating a mossed ring base, before hand-wiring foliage and adding exciting textures to your wreath such as berries, oranges, limes, cinnamon and much more. You then have the option to add a ribbon to complete your design.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No prior knowledge required.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course you will be able to:
• Moss and hand wire your own wreath, skills which can be transferred to making other seasonal wreaths (such as autumnal and dried)
• Learn the best technique for creating wreaths
• Learn how to securely add wired accessories such as cinnamon and oranges
• Learn how to incorporate foliage from your own garden

You will need to bring

• Strong scissors or secateurs for stronger foliage
• Gardening gloves (certain foliage can be sticky and muddy)
• Bin bag or waste bucket / bin
• Notebook and pen
• An apron
• A crate or flat box (lined with cellophane) to transport your design home

All materials for the wreath are provided in the cost of the course.

Extra costs on the course for example text book, materials or equipment:

No extra fees. There is an allowance included in the fee for all plant material and sundries used.

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

Further floral workshops.

Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.

Brief Description

On this short course, you will be introduced to Ikebana, the Japanese Art of Flower arrangement, both Shoinbana, traditional Koryu, Seika style ikebana, and Jiyuuka, free style ikebana, how it relates to nature, and the four seasons. This time you will be introduced Summer arrangements and settings. Your tutor will discuss Ikebana and Western flower arrangements and demonstrate different style of Ikebana.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience or knowledge of flower arrangement is required. Learners who have an interest in Japanese culture, or some knowledge of Ikebana or western flower arrangement and beginners are welcome.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will have the opportunity to:
• Learn about what is Ikebana
• Learn to practice and enjoy basic Ikebana with plants and containers for Summer
• Take your own Ikebana home
• The cost of the course includes a kenzan (a device used in ikebana for fixing the flowers in the container) which is yours to take home and keep.

For the session you will need to bring:

A pair of strong scissors or secateurs and a large bowl or container, for example a salad bowl or decorative suitable vessel. You may like to bring flowers, flowering branches, and leafy materials from your own garden, but this is not essential. The cost of the course includes a kenzan (a device used in ikebana for fixing the flowers in the container) which is yours to take home and keep. Please bring a bin bag, a crate or semi rigid bag (e.g. supermarket hessian bag) to transport your own Ikebana.

Extra costs on the course for materials or equipment :

Flower materials have been included in your course fee (flowers, branches, leafy materials and kenzan are included) – NO extra fee.
You may like to bring flowers, flowering branches, and leafy materials from your own garden, but this is not essential.

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

The learners can progress to the next level and other seasons, through additional workshops.
Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.

Brief Description:

This Japanese course is for absolute beginners to develop basic speaking and listening skills in everyday situations, to read and write Hiragana and Katakana as well as recognise some Kanji, to help you speak with confidence.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

This term will be in its second term, learners will be expected to have covered the majority of the first term outcomes – see below. If you are unsure, the office can put you in contact with the tutor.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the one-year course you will have covered the following topics:

First Term:

• use greetings, make introductions, and give personal information
• order drinks and snacks at a coffee shop
• offer someone a drink …. and to accept or refuse
• ask for and give directions
• find out about places and how to get there
• read and write Hiragana and Katakana
• recognise some signs and Kanji
• go shopping, visit a department store etc.

Second Term:

• find a hotel room (Western and Japanese style)
• book ahead by phone
• check in at reception
• ask about facilities
• recognise some signs and Kanji
• find out about train times
• buy tickets
• take a taxi
• eat out

Third Term:

• change money and ways of paying
• find a hotel room (Western and Japanese style)
• book ahead by phone
• check in at reception
• ask about facilities
• find out about train times
• buy tickets
• take a taxi
• eat out
• dealing with emergency

Extra costs on the course, for example text book, materials or equipment

Textbook: BBC Talk Japanese” ISBN: 978-1-40668-011-9 

For the first session you will need to have available:

Please do not purchase any books until you receive confirmation. The tutor will photocopy handouts for the first session. After the first session please purchase the following textbook: BBC Talk Japanese” ISBN: 978-1-40668-011-9 

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

Wherever possible continuation courses will be offered. The beginners level runs for three terms. We only take payment for one term at a time, if you wish to continue you will be given the option to re-enrol later in the term.

After the three terms the college will offer an Improvers level.

Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.

The course runs term-time (no classes during school holidays) from 30th October 2023 until 20th May 2024; you will sit the assessment after 55 hours of lessons.

This course will be held face to face in centre.

The course is fully funded by Cambridgeshire Skills – full attendance is required. You will complete an enrolment form, so that funding can be applied for; you will also need to provide your National Insurance number and show a form of photographic ID (passport, driving licence etc.). Failure to meet these criteria means that funding is withdrawn and you will be liable for the full cost of the course. You will be assessed through the lessons and by homework.

Brief Description:

How to Paint Like a Famous Artist

Do you have a favourite artist or painting you would like to copy? This course is designed to enable you to emulate your favourite artists. The course will cover background information on different art movements, how to examine a painting and how to approach actually painting it.

Instruction will be given on starting a painting, mixing colours accurately and use of brushwork to get the effects you want, ending up with a painting in the style of your choice.

Course Aims

Learners will explore design and composition including the use of colour, values and masses to appreciate how and why choices were made by artists when creating works of art. This knowledge will be applied to a painting to develop this appreciation and confidence in the longer term.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Prepare a surface for painting
2. Select an appropriate approach to drawing as a start point.
3. Select colours for accurate colour matching.
4. Recognise the different stages of a painting.
5. Use brushwork to achieve desired effects.
6. See the importance of value, masses and edges.
7. Use preparatory studies as a problem solving tool.

Extra costs on the course for example text book, materials or equipment:

It is advised that learners supply their own surfaces to paint on (canvas, board, paper). A detailed materials list will be provided prior to the course starting.

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more

Brief description:

This course is aimed at anyone who has an interest in, or wants to know how Britain interacts with the world.

Previous experience and Knowledge needed:

None.

The course will have an emphasis on interactivity with the using of learning aids such as short quizzes (a general introductory ‘what do you know already?’ and one per topic) and classroom discussions.

ON COMPLETION OF THIS COURSE, WHAT MIGHT YOUR NEXT STEPS BE?

Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sunday’s , you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.

Brief Description:

Embark on an exciting journey into the world of fine jewellery craftsmanship with out one-day claw setting course. Designed for individuals with understanding of the basics of silver jewellery making, this intensive workshop will focus on the intricate and timeless art of claw setting gemstones.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Manual dexterity is needed. Learners should be familiar and comfortable with shaping, soldering and polishing techniques for silver jewellery making.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:

Gain an understanding of the history, significance, and versatility of claw settings in jewellery design.

Learn how to choose the right gemstones for claw settings, considering factors such as durability, cut, and colour.

Explore various prong types and shapes, including traditional round, pointed, and V-shaped, to understand their impact on gemstone security and aesthetics.

Familiarize yourself with the specialized tools and equipment used in claw setting, ensuring precision and safety in your work.

Learn the process of preparing prongs for gemstone placement, including filing, shaping, and polishing to create a secure and elegant foundation.

Develop the skills to set gemstones into prongs, achieving a professional and captivating finish.

Extra costs on the course for example text book, materials or equipment:

The fee includes your silver for the day. There may be an opportunity to purchase extra silver so feel free to bring some cash with you.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Please bring a pen, pencil and notebook. Tools will be provided but feel free to bring your own. You may wish to bring an apron, and glasses if you wear them for reading.

Brief Description:

Wax carving is a fascinating and intricate art form that involves sculpting and shaping malleable wax into intricate designs and patterns. It is a foundational technique in the world of jewellery making and metal casting. Use specialized tools to manipulate the wax, and bring creative visions to life in three-dimensional form. The wax models serve as the basis for creating moulds, which are then used to cast metal, such as silver or gold. Wax carving allows for intricate detailing and precise customization, making it a versatile and essential skill cherished by craftsmen in the realm of fine jewellery and artistic expression.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Manual dexterity is needed. No prior knowledge of working with silver is needed.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:

Participants will learn about the basic principles of wax carving and its applications in various fields, including jewellery making, sculpture, and prototyping.

Students will be introduced to the essential tools and materials used in wax carving, such as different types of wax, carving tools, heating equipment, and safety measures.

The course will cover design principles, sketching techniques, and translating ideas from paper to wax, helping participants plan their wax carving project effectively.

Participants will learn a range of carving techniques, including subtractive carving, adding details, texturing, and creating intricate patterns using specialized tools.

Discover common challenges faced during wax carving and techniques to troubleshoot and refine their designs to achieve the desired results.

Understand how apply finishing touches and polishing methods to bring out the best in the wax-carved piece, preparing it for further processing, such as casting in metal or displaying as a standalone wax sculpture.

Extra costs on the course for example text book, materials or equipment:

The fee includes all consumables required, but does not include metal and casting costs.

Learners will be advised on the most cost effective way to cast their wax sculptures in their metal of choice.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Please bring a pen, pencil and notebook. Tools will be provided but feel free to bring your own. You may wish to bring an apron, and glasses if you wear them for reading.

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

Continue your skills in one of our Beginners’ or Returners’ Silver Jewellery courses.

The Adult Learn and Train office is able to give course information or search for alternative courses for you. Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year. Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sunday’s, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In this interactive Spanish for beginners course, you will learn how to communicate effectively in everyday situations in Spanish-speaking countries (Spain and 20 Latin American countries). You will develop your speaking and writing skills through listening, reading and interacting with your Spanish native speaker tutor along with your classmates in a relaxing and enjoyable class. Your interests, needs and goals will be taken into consideration to make the learning experience appealing and meaningful. To complete the full course and cover all the learning outcomes listed below, you will need to attend three terms (there is no obligation to attend more than one term).

Previous Experience:

This course will be in its second term, learners will be expected to have covered the majority of the first-term outcomes – see below. If you are unsure, the office can put you in contact with the tutor.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

By the end of the one-year course you will have the opportunity to learn how to:
First Term:
• Greet people, give and ask for personal information (name, age, profession, nationality, etc).
• Express intention and motive of what you do (why you want to learn Spanish or travel to Spain or Latin America).
• Describe Spanish Speaking countries -or those of learners- and their main features (culture, food, music, art and weather) -Verb SER-.
• Express existence -Hay (there is/there are)- and location (Verb ESTAR).

Second Term:
• Go shopping (ask for products, price and express preference and need).
• Introduce your family.
• Describe people (physical appearance and personality).
• Express likes and dislikes (Verb GUSTAR).
• Explain your daily routine (Reflexive Verbs).

Third Term:
• Order food and drinks in a restaurant or bar.
• Describe towns, local areas, their amenities and services.
• Give and ask for directions (Tourism and sightseeing).
• Explain past experiences (Pretérito Perfecto Compuesto -Present Perfect-).
• Talk about skills and abilities.

EXTRA COSTS ON THE COURSE FOR EXAMPLE TEXT BOOK, MATERIALS OR EQUIPMENT:

There is a textbook which the tutor will discuss with you.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING

A notebook and pen

ON COMPLETION OF THIS COURSE, WHAT MIGHT YOUR NEXT STEPS BE?

Learners will be able to proceed to the Spanish Improvers course after 3 terms of tuition. there is no obligation to attend more than one term.
Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more

Brief Description

This is a course for improvers where you will learn how to communicate effectively in everyday situations in Spanish speaking countries (Spain and 20 Latin American countries). We believe that learning is an active constructive process; learning through action! We think that speaking is one of the most important ways to learn and boost confidence, so we encourage students to consolidate what they have learnt through role play and conversation. Oral and written interactions, listening comprehension, reading, oral and written expression; learn to use! All learners’ interests, needs and goals will be taken into consideration to make the learning experience appealing and meaningful.
The course is priced for 10 weeks (one term); To complete the full course and cover all the learning outcomes listed below you will need to attend both terms (there is no obligation to attend more than one term).

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Learners should have already studied Spanish for 60 hours, or have a basic knowledge of the language. This course will be in its second term, learners will be expected to have covered the majority of the first-term outcomes – see below. If you are unsure, the office can put you in contact with the tutor.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the one-year course you will have the opportunity to learn how to:
First Term:
• Spanish language and you (express feeling and interests)
• Explain past experiences
• Movies and cinema
• Express past experience
• Describe part of the house and furniture
Second Term:
• Express actions in progress
• Plan a weekend in a Spanish city
• Food and express eating habits
• Talk about present and past experiences. Give opinions
Third Term:
• Explain and describe past experiences
• Sightseeing in Spain
• Give advice, express the mood
• Describe the most interesting moments of your life
• Tell stories

Extra costs on the course for example text book, materials or equipment

Aula International 2. – Link to follow

For the first session you will need to bring:

Notebook and pen

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

Learners will be able to proceed to the Spanish Improvers 2 course.
The Learn and Train office is able to give course information or search for alternative courses for you.

Brief description

Do you love colour? Do you marvel at stained glass windows or blown glass? Have you ever wondered how glass is made and put together? Here is your chance to try a unique glass technique called ‘copperfoil,’ invented by Louis Comfort Tiffany which revolutionized the way that glass was made and put together. You will make small scale, delicate pieces using this method. The glass sheets are made using layers of colours that are then fixed together using a flatbed kiln. The textures are made by laying the glass onto a textured surface and then heating up the glass so that it melts into the texture. Finally, the glass is left to cool and then the texture remains in the glass once it has been ‘fixed’ by the heat process.

Originally, Tiffany wanted to replicate specific colours and textures that he saw in the landscape surrounding him, out of glass rather than painting onto clear glass. He used very small scale pieces to create his landscapes and lampshades.  Glass is still made in the same way now as it was then.  You will need a steady hand to cut the glass and lots of patience to learn to solder, but the results will be well worth the effort!  During this short course you will learn to cut glass and grind the edges so that the copper foil sticks to it. You will then learn to solder the glass pieces together, attach a hook onto the back and patina it to make the glass shine and the soldered areas a beautiful copper or black finish. All my students have loved this course, and made some fantastic work. In fact, some of them have made a career from doing it! Try it, you will love it, too.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED

No experience necessary. Just lots of patience and a steady hand!

LEARNER OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to learn:

• Design skills
• Glass cutting methods
• Health and Safety
• Brief history of glass/makers
• Copper foil technique
• Grinding and Soldering skills

FOR THE SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING:

• Images for inspiration (essential); these should be drawings, photographs or magazine cuttings only (not stained glass, please!)
• a permanent black or silver pen
• An apron, which is fabric or plastic coated
• A wooden board
• 1 x A4 sheet of clear picture frame glass (Wilkinson’s clip frames are the best) – this is for easy transportation of your glass piece
• Please also bring a packed lunch each day

EXTRA COSTS ON THE COURSE:

Tools and equipment will be provided.
Materials are NOT included in the course fee.

There will be a fee of £25 to cover the costs of equipment and glass payable to the tutor on the first day.

ON COMPLETION OF THIS COURSE, WHAT MIGHT YOUR NEXT STEPS BE?

Your tutor will advise you and offers other glass courses.
Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.

Brief Description

This course will focus on a simple and compact T’ai Chi form consisting of 4 ‘modular ‘ elements that can be practised in varying levels of complexity. including a seated version, In addition we will use simple exercises to develop key principles of the art.

The course will include tuition in:

• The 4 ‘modules’ of the form.
• Combinations of the modules in various levels of complexity including a seated variant
• Associated exercises (Chi Kung) to explore basic principles, posture and breathing.
• Stepping patterns
• An introduction to T’ai Chi partner work.

This is an ideal way to start learning T’ai chi encompassing key principles in a simple and accessible package. Once learnt the form can be performed in a small space such as an average sized sitting room and is suitable for people of all abilities and experience.

Further information that may help you before attending is available in the document ‘Enjoying your first class’ available for download via www.cambridgetaichi.co.uk

There is a health questionnaire to complete before the first lesson. This will be sent out with confirmation of your booking.

  Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience or knowledge is required.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course participants will have the opportunity to:

• Develop an overview of the first half of the form and associated exercises
• Develop an understanding of key principles
• Begin a home practice for stress relief and well-being
• Improve posture and breathing

Extra costs on the course for example text book, materials or equipment

None.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Loose clothing and soft shoes. Further information that may help you before attending is available in the document Enjoying Your First Class available for download via www.cambridgetaichi.co.uk

Your health questionnaire – you can also return this by email.

 On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

There are classes available teaching other sequences and further developing the art.

Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.

The art of Chi Kung uses a range of simple exercises without the need to learn a complicated sequence of movements. These exercises integrate breathing, posture and meditation into flowing practices that help to promote good physical and mental health and stress release. Students are encouraged to work at their own pace in a calm and non-competitive environment. All of the chi kung exercises are performed standing. Individual adaptations according to needs and abilities are possible.

The exercises are drawn from a variety of traditional sources including T’ai Chi Chuan itself. This T’ai Chi and Chi Kung Exercise course is appropriate for Beginners or those with more experience. New people are welcome at any time.

Further information that may help you before attending is available in the document ‘Enjoying your first Class’ available for download via www.cambridgetaichi.co.uk

There is a health questionnaire to complete before the first lesson. This will be sent out with confirmation of your booking.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED?

No previous experience or knowledge is required.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

By the end of the course participants will have the opportunity to:

• Develop an understanding of key principles

• Become familiar with the basic exercise set

• Begin a home practice for stress relief and wellbeing

• Improve posture and breathing

• Deepen your understanding of physical, energetic and meditational aspects of the art (returning learners)

EXTRA COSTS ON THE COURSE FOR EXAMPLE TEXT BOOK,

None.

FOR THE FIRST SESSION you will need:

Wear comfortable clothes and enough space to move freely

Brief description:

The course will provide instruction and support on how to compose and paint a still life in watercolours. Learners can choose their own image to paint either from photographs, paintings by other artists or their own objects (fruit or flowers for example). Aspects of design and composition will be covered as well as paint application and the use of colour.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Previous experience and knowledge will be built upon but there is no requirement for it as the course covers all ability levels. No previous experience is necessary.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Arrange a still life
• Select the important shapes
• Effectively use colour to create shapes and form
• Select, mix and apply colours according to their own preferences.
• Choose from a range of techniques and studio practices to enable them to achieve their goals (flat washes, blended washes, textured marks).
• Experiment with a range of innovative techniques and develop them to suit individual outcomes.

Extra costs on the course for example text book, materials or equipment.

Please bring any objects, items or favourite things to paint. You can paint from photographs however it is better to print these beforehand. These do not need to be A4 size, A5 is fine. Nothing else – we will supply all materials needed for the day.

But if you would like to bring materials (or already have) see below:

Watercolour paper – this should be 140lb weight (300gsm) and in a surface of your choice (Not is the intermediate surface and most popular). A4 size pad, spiral bound is ideal.
Watercolour brushes – If you are trying watercolour painting for the first time it is advisable not to buy expensive sable brushes. Synthetic brushes are much cheaper and easily good enough. A round brush with a good point (size 5 or 6) will do for most techniques.
Watercolour paints – 1 red (alizarin crimson or cadmium red), 1 yellow (cadmium yell0w) and 1 blue (cobalt or ultramarine). Tubes are best. Student quality is fine.

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

Your tutor will advise you on other painting courses.
Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more

Brief Description:

Enjoy the art of weaving pliable willow into three-dimensional objects. 

This workshop will teach you how to make a round willow basket.  You will learn a variety of weaving techniques and be encouraged to design your own basket, choosing from a range of willows, weaving styles and basket sizes.

Enjoy expert tuition in a relaxed and fun environment.

Previous Experience and Knowledge needed?

None

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:

• Learn some basketry weaving techniques.
• Learn how to prepare willow for weaving.
• Complete one willow basket of your own design.

Extra costs of the course?

None – all materials are included in the cost.

For the first session you will need to bring:

A notepad and pen. Please also bring a packed lunch each day.

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

Willow basketry workshops, frame basketry, obelisk, birdfeeders. 

The Adult Learn and Train office is able to give course information or search for alternative courses for you.

Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or maybe look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.

Brief Description

Writing life stories is about capturing personal experiences in a way that can be understood and enjoyed by others. Everyone has a story to tell because every one of us has lived a life unique to us. Some people want to set down their journey through life to pass on to children or grandchildren whilst others may want to write an account of their family history. Perhaps you have a diary written by a relative or letters or recordings of the stories told down through the generations that you would like to pull together in a way that can give others a glimpse into what it might’ve been like to be that person. Writing life stories always starts with the desire to explore what the intensely personal experience of living might be like from someone else’s perspective and sharing in that perspective can enrich our own lives. 

Our recent personal and community experience of the COVID pandemic has led many of us to want to capture what we and others have been through in a way that means our memories of it can be revisited and never be forgotten. Memories that are shared remain relevant, teach us something about the past and present and, most importantly of all, are not lost as time moves on and the world changes around us. 

So if you want to share memories of a loved one or tell your story to others or spark new interest in the experiences of a family member from the past, a short course of Writing Life Stories will lead you through how to go about getting started. If you know the skills required and the various ways of tackling and presenting a life story project your enjoyment of writing one will be enhanced, and the finished result will be something others will want to read. 

This course may be funded by Cambridgeshire Skills, so full attendance is required; you will also need to complete an enrolment form so that the office can apply for the funding and complete an individual learning plan weekly with your tutor.

This course may be fully funded if:
You are over 19 years old
You live within Cambridgeshire and Peterborough combined authority
and have lived in the UK / an EEA country for the last 3 years.

Contact the office if you would like to confirm your eligibility.

If you do not qualify for funding but would still like to attend contact the office for a price.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:

• Identify the different ways a life story can be told.
• Recognise what makes a life story interesting and compelling.
• Formulate a plan to organise material and any necessary research.
• Write a short piece of memoir.

Extra costs on the course for example text book, materials or equipment:

None

For the first session you will need to bring:

Paper and pen/pencil.

On completion of this course, what might your next steps be?

Creative Writing for Beginners
Next Steps in Creative Writing.
The Adult Learn and Train office is able to give course information or search for alternative courses for you.

Adult Learn and Train offer courses through-out the year.
Try similar courses or look at learning something completely new.
You will find provision on some Saturday and Sundays, you will also find courses available in the day and evening at different venues in Cambridge. Courses vary in length from one-off sessions to 10 weeks or more.