Subject: General Courses

Brief Description:

For Beginners this course explores the skills and craft of writing and drawing for graphic novels, Zines and comics.

In the realm of self-expression, zines, comics and graphic novels stand as powerful, intimate canvases where words and art intertwine to tell unique and personal stories. Whether you’re a seasoned creator or a complete beginner, this course invites you to dive into this vibrant world, where your imagination takes centre stage, and the medium gives you an opportunity to express the personal stories you carry within.

With the raw authenticity of hand-drawn illustrations in tandem with compelling text you will craft graphic storytelling that resonates and captivates.

You’ll unravel the art of storytelling:
We will start with a combination of exploration of the work of experts, creative writing and drawing activities, then draw out your unique ideas translating them into illustrations and captivating sequences. You’ll understand how graphic storytellers blend words and images, and apply this knowledge to you own storytelling, creating not just pieces of art but windows into your soul.

Characters are at the heart of storytelling. Together, we also will delve into the intricacies of character creation, exploring the nuances of their personalities, backstories, and motivations. From the subtle quirks that make them memorable to the complexities that drive their every action, we’ll unlock the secrets to forging characters that resonate with readers and viewers alike.

This course is more than just a technical journey. It’s an exploration of self, a celebration of your individuality, and a platform for your voice to be heard. Together, we’ll navigate the creative process, from conceptualization to completion, and you’ll leave with not just a collection of graphic storytelling in the form of zines, but a newfound confidence in your ability to share your stories with the world.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No experience necessary, this course is suitable for all.

Learning Outcomes:

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

1. Foundational Character Development Skills:
   • Participants will acquire basic skills to create simple yet expressive autobiographical characters, gaining an understanding of character roles within personal stories.
2. Introduction to Autobiographical Storytelling:
   • Students will develop a foundational grasp of autobiographical storytelling, learning basic story structure, pacing, and the integration of visual and textual elements to create a coherent narrative.
3. Basic Drawing Techniques:
   • By the end of the course, beginners will demonstrate an understanding of drawing techniques for comics and graphic storytelling.
4. Introductory Zine-Making:
   • Participants will acquire introductory skills in creating autobiographical zines, including basic layout design, resulting in a introductory-level project that effectively communicates personal stories in a simple and accessible format.

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

None.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen/Pencil and Paper.

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

Diving deeper into creative writing and graphic novels.

Further development in drawing techniques.

Further development in multimodal storytelling.

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:

On this 8 week course you will look into the world of Criminology. This course is for anybody who has an interest in criminology with no previous qualifications or experience in this field necessary. The outcomes of this course are to give the learner an insight into what criminology is and what it is not. Also, we will take a general overview of the crime picture in the UK, and how it is dealt with in terms of the policing and courts system.

Crime is a major issue in society, it makes some people afraid, for others it is a way of life but for the majority of the public there is an interest which has given birth to a whole industry in fiction and non-fiction storytelling via films, books and magazines. Crime ranges from the non-violent and trivial to serious and violent (including murder). This course looks at various topics including; the definition of crime, the causes of crime, types of crime, who is a criminal, reporting crime and why it is important, who are the victims of crime, a brief overview of the criminal justice system and why are we so fascinated and appalled by crime.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience or knowledge is required, but a keen interest in criminology or other social sciences would be an advantage.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will have:

• Gain a general overview of the crime picture in the UK, and how it is dealt with in terms of the policing and courts system.
• Contribute in a meaningful way to criminological debates.
• Understand how media representations of crime can manipulate public opinions and perceptions of crime.
• Understand the social, political and economic implications of crime.

For the first session you will need to bring….

Please bring along a pen and notepad for note taking.

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

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

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
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.

Brief Description:

This is a new course that has come about due to many requests from learners that
have completed Guitar for Beginners 1, 2 and 3. The emphasis will be to hone in and
develop the many techniques and skills that were introduced in the first three courses.

More time will be allocated to individual pieces promoting an ensemble style with
separate contributions from the learners such as accompaniment, rhythm, melody and
improvised lead guitar.

The course will run for all three terms with new projects assigned at the start of
each term meaning that those that have just started the course will be able to participate
from the start.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Skills and experience gained from attending Guitar for Beginners 1,2 and 3

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Participate in ensemble/group performances of completed pieces first introduced in earlier
  courses.
• Participate in ensemble/group renditions of pieces first introduced in earlier
  courses.
• Increase understanding and ability of skills gained.
• Further develop skills in reading music
• Benefit from participating and sharing with the other learners in the group
• Discuss elements of guitar playing from experience and hindsight

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

Guitarist’s Way by Peter Nuttall and John Whitworth, book 2

For the first session you will need to bring:

One working guitar and all the material provided in Guitar for Beginners 1,2 and 3
On completion of this course, what might your next steps be

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
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:

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

You should have completed the Acting Foundation course, or have had some acting training.

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

None

For the first session you will need to bring:

Wear comfortable clothing

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

A higher level acting course.

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:

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED:

None.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

• Ability to understand and analyse key geopolitical events both present and future.
• Understanding of how the international political system works between states.
• Understanding of the hierarchical nature of the international system and how it favours the great powers of the day.

By the end of the course you will have: A good understanding of how the international system works and how states interact in this system.

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING

Please bring along a pen and notebook for note-taking.

Brief Description:

In the first half of this course you will learn at-home DIY skills: how to use a range of basic hand tools, make a model of an internal wall, and learn how to fix problems around the home. The second half of the course will depend on you. You can learn how to make 5 different wood joints, which will set you up for the improvers DIY & carpentry class. Or you can choose to continue learning in home DIY skills.
You will be shown how to use the tools correctly and how to sharpen/maintain carpentry hand tools.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

This is a course for beginners. No previous experience is necessary.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will have the opportunity to:
Identify and name common hand tools
Know how to maintain carpentry tools
Learn how to use them safely
Produce woodwork joints
Learn how to fix common household problems

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

If you choose to wear Steel Toe Capped Boots (which we recommend), costs start at approx. £20 from hardware stores.
The wood for the joint practice and 6 joint frame will be provided.

For the first session you will need to bring:

If you have any tools at home you would like to practise using and get confident with, feel free to bring these along (for example your battery drill/screwdriver). No sandals, or open-toed shoes are allowed in a workshop setting. Please tie back loose hair and wear sensible clothing. Wear sensible shoes or steel toe capped boots if you have them.

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

DIY Improvers, upholstery or similar.
The Adult Learn and Train office is also 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

This course is suitable for you if you are a beginner with little musical knowledge or experience (approximately 20 hours experience). Techniques and skills will be aimed at preparing you to play any style of guitar music. The course will provide an introduction to reading music and tablature, successful tuning and replacing strings, playing/performance techniques and building a repertoire of songs and exercises. You will need to bring your own guitar to classes.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Skills attained in Guitar Beginners 1

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course the participants will be able to:
• To read music to the 2nd level/reading music with two voices
• To play barre chords and learn how to find inversions of major, minor and 7th chords
• To increase repertoire of tablature riffs and songs
• Play chord progressions to well-known songs
• Develop skills in picking and strumming techniques
• Play major and minor scales with a mind to improvise.

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

Cost of a method book available from the tutor at the first session. Approximate cost £6.00

For the first session you will need to bring:

One working guitar; acoustic, classical or steel string.

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

Guitar Beginners 3.
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.

Click here to view all courses available

Brief Description:

Are you interested in learning British Sign Language (BSL)? This introduction course will give you a taste of BSL.

Explore British Sign Language as a communication, and a language tool.
Topics covered will include deaf awareness, and receptive language skills.

BSL is now a recognised language, if you have always wanted to find out more, get booked onto the short, funded course.

Please note: The timing is different from the programme of courses – 2pm is the correct entry.

This course is 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 is 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?

This course is suitable for learners who are new to signing. No experience needed.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:
• Learn the alphabet
• Introduce yourself in BSL
• Learn signs for colours, weather and transport
• Look at receptive language skills

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

None

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen/Pencil and notepad/paper

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

Level 1 accredited course in BSL.

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:

Are you interested in learning British Sign Language (BSL)? This introduction course will give you a taste of BSL.

Explore British Sign Language as a communication, and a language tool.
Topics covered will include deaf awareness, and receptive language skills.

BSL is now a recognised language, if you have always wanted to find out more, get booked onto the short, funded course.

This course is 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 is 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?

This course is suitable for learners who are new to signing. No experience needed.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:
• Learn the alphabet
• Introduce yourself in BSL
• Learn signs for colours, weather and transport
• Look at receptive language skills

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

None

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen/Pencil and notepad/paper

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

Level 1 accredited course in BSL.

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:

A course centered around working with timber. You will be learning and practicing the following joints: Half Lap, Mortice and Tenon, Dove Tail, T Halving, Bridal and Dowel Joint. Once you are confident with the individual joints, you can extend your learning by producing a five joint frame using all the skills learned constructing the individual joints. These joints are used in every day joinery projects. Once you have mastered these you can go on to make individual projects.
You will be shown how to use the tools correctly and how to sharpen/maintain carpentry hand tools.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

This is a course for beginners. No previous experience is necessary.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will have the opportunity to:
• Identify and name common carpentry tools
• Know how to maintain carpentry tools
• Learn how to use them safely
• Produce woodwork joints

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

If you choose to wear Steel Toe Capped Boots (which we recommend), costs start at approx. £20 from hardware stores.
The wood for the joint practice and 6 joint frame will be provided.

For the first session you will need to bring:

A pencil and notepad. No sandals, or open-toed shoes are allowed in a workshop setting. Hair must also be tied back. You are advised to wear steel toe cap boots in the workshop. Wood for the joints and frame project will be provided.

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

DIY Improvers, upholstery or similar.

The Adult Learn and Train office is also 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:

Creative Writing for Beginners is an eight week course that revolves around exploring the skills and craft of writing fiction. Writing stories for personal pleasure has become a popular pastime again as has writing poetry to post online for others to read and take inspiration from. Engaging in creative pursuits has also been found to relieve anxiety and promote good mental health by providing a focus for concentrated thought. It doesn’t matter whether you want to write as an end it itself or to write with the intention of sharing your work with a wider audience, the well-being benefits come from engaging in the act of harnessing your creative energy. Although as with every craft the more accomplished the finished result, the more appreciation and enjoyment gained.

Creative Writing for Beginners will help you feel more confident in your abilities to communicate your ideas and will also give you the opportunity to experiment in a safe environment with different forms of storytelling to find which gives you the most satisfaction and creative enjoyment. Throughout the course you will learn about putting the skills and craft of storytelling into practice by exploring the components of fiction, and the power of language to create imaginary worlds. Writing exercises to hone the skills and deepen understanding build week by week into a short story, a piece of memoir, a poem. The emphasis is on having a go and learning by doing because there has never been a writer who cannot improve their work by rewriting in the light of feedback given and knowledge or experience gained (even Shakespeare crossed things out and had another go at finding the right word to convey exactly what he intended). Creative Writing for Beginners can’t promise to turn you into a great playwright, but it will give you plenty of opportunities to better appreciate and implement the skills necessary for successful storytelling whilst having fun playing with language along the way.

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Identify writing goals and ways of working to achieve them.
• Give and receive feedback.
• Differentiate the elements required in storytelling.
• Identify the skills of creative writing.
• Write a short story, a piece of non-fiction memoir, and a poem.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

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

None.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen/pencil and paper.

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

Writing Life Stories
Creative Writing for Improvers

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 Acting Foundation course will offer you a foundation in acting. Working through a variety of theatre games, improvisations and techniques, you will be encouraged to explore your imagination and gain confidence in vocal and physical skills. We will use both contemporary and classical text and progress to in-class presentations of scenes and monologues.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:
• strengthen your ability to speak in public
• gain a basic understanding of a variety of acting techniques
• work on contemporary and classical scenes or monologues

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

There may be an opportunity to purchase a script to use during the class. This would not exceed £10.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Wear comfortable clothing

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

Acting Intermediate – Scene Study course

A higher level acting course.

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  

Techniques and skills will be taught aimed at preparing the learner to play any style of guitar music. The guitar beginners course will provide an introduction to reading music and tablature, tuning and replacing strings, playing techniques and building up a repertoire of songs, chord progressions and guitar riffs.

OUTCOMES OF THE COURSE:

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

Play chord and riffs to well-known songs, read written music and tablature, perform strumming, finger picking and plectrum techniques, play scales with a mind to improvise, replace strings and tune the guitar, recognise music terms and symbols.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED:

None

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

The Guitarist’s Way Book 1 by Peter Nuttall and John Whitworth, Holley Music, approximate cost £6.00

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED:

One working guitar of any kind, (nylon string, steel string or electric) and The Guitarist’s Way Book 1

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:

For Beginners this course explores the skills and craft of writing and drawing for graphic novels, Zines and comics.

In the realm of self-expression, zines, comics and graphic novels stand as powerful, intimate canvases where words and art intertwine to tell unique and personal stories. Whether you’re a seasoned creator or a complete beginner, this course invites you to dive into this vibrant world, where your imagination takes centre stage, and the medium gives you an opportunity to express the personal stories you carry within.

With the raw authenticity of hand-drawn illustrations in tandem with compelling text you will craft graphic storytelling that resonates and captivates.

You’ll unravel the art of storytelling:
We will start with a combination of exploration of the work of experts, creative writing and drawing activities, then draw out your unique ideas translating them into illustrations and captivating sequences. You’ll understand how graphic storytellers blend words and images, and apply this knowledge to you own storytelling, creating not just pieces of art but windows into your soul.

Characters are at the heart of storytelling. Together, we also will delve into the intricacies of character creation, exploring the nuances of their personalities, backstories, and motivations. From the subtle quirks that make them memorable to the complexities that drive their every action, we’ll unlock the secrets to forging characters that resonate with readers and viewers alike.

This course is more than just a technical journey. It’s an exploration of self, a celebration of your individuality, and a platform for your voice to be heard. Together, we’ll navigate the creative process, from conceptualization to completion, and you’ll leave with not just a collection of graphic storytelling in the form of zines, but a newfound confidence in your ability to share your stories with the world.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No experience necessary, this course is suitable for all.

Learning Outcomes:

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

1. Foundational Character Development Skills:
   • Participants will acquire basic skills to create simple yet expressive autobiographical characters, gaining an understanding of character roles within personal stories.
2. Introduction to Autobiographical Storytelling:
   • Students will develop a foundational grasp of autobiographical storytelling, learning basic story structure, pacing, and the integration of visual and textual elements to create a coherent narrative.
3. Basic Drawing Techniques:
   • By the end of the course, beginners will demonstrate an understanding of drawing techniques for comics and graphic storytelling.
4. Introductory Zine-Making:
   • Participants will acquire introductory skills in creating autobiographical zines, including basic layout design, resulting in a introductory-level project that effectively communicates personal stories in a simple and accessible format.

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

None.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen/Pencil and Paper.

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

Diving deeper into creative writing and graphic novels.

Further development in drawing techniques.

Further development in multimodal storytelling.

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:

On this 8 week course you will look into the world of Criminology. This course is for anybody who has an interest in criminology with no previous qualifications or experience in this field necessary. The outcomes of this course are to give the learner an insight into what criminology is and what it is not. Also, we will take a general overview of the crime picture in the UK, and how it is dealt with in terms of the policing and courts system.

Crime is a major issue in society, it makes some people afraid, for others it is a way of life but for the majority of the public there is an interest which has given birth to a whole industry in fiction and non-fiction storytelling via films, books and magazines. Crime ranges from the non-violent and trivial to serious and violent (including murder). This course looks at various topics including; the definition of crime, the causes of crime, types of crime, who is a criminal, reporting crime and why it is important, who are the victims of crime, a brief overview of the criminal justice system and why are we so fascinated and appalled by crime.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience or knowledge is required, but a keen interest in criminology or other social sciences would be an advantage.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will have:

• Gain a general overview of the crime picture in the UK, and how it is dealt with in terms of the policing and courts system.
• Contribute in a meaningful way to criminological debates.
• Understand how media representations of crime can manipulate public opinions and perceptions of crime.
• Understand the social, political and economic implications of crime.

For the first session you will need to bring….

Please bring along a pen and notepad for note taking.

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

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

Brief Description:

This is a new course that has come about due to many requests from learners that
have completed Guitar for Beginners 1, 2 and 3. The emphasis will be to hone in and
develop the many techniques and skills that were introduced in the first three courses.

More time will be allocated to individual pieces promoting an ensemble style with
separate contributions from the learners such as accompaniment, rhythm, melody and
improvised lead guitar.

The course will run for all three terms with new projects assigned at the start of
each term meaning that those that have just started the course will be able to participate
from the start.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Skills and experience gained from attending Guitar for Beginners 1,2 and 3

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Participate in ensemble/group performances of completed pieces first introduced in earlier
  courses.
• Participate in ensemble/group renditions of pieces first introduced in earlier
  courses.
• Increase understanding and ability of skills gained.
• Further develop skills in reading music
• Benefit from participating and sharing with the other learners in the group
• Discuss elements of guitar playing from experience and hindsight

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

Guitarist’s Way by Peter Nuttall and John Whitworth, book 2

For the first session you will need to bring:

One working guitar and all the material provided in Guitar for Beginners 1,2 and 3
On completion of this course, what might your next steps be

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
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.

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
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:

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

You should have completed the Acting Foundation course, or have had some acting training.

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

None

For the first session you will need to bring:

Wear comfortable clothing

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

A higher level acting course.

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:

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED:

None.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

• Ability to understand and analyse key geopolitical events both present and future.
• Understanding of how the international political system works between states.
• Understanding of the hierarchical nature of the international system and how it favours the great powers of the day.

By the end of the course you will have: A good understanding of how the international system works and how states interact in this system.

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING

Please bring along a pen and notebook for note-taking.

Brief Description

This course is suitable for you if you are a beginner with little musical knowledge or experience (approximately 20 hours experience). Techniques and skills will be aimed at preparing you to play any style of guitar music. The course will provide an introduction to reading music and tablature, successful tuning and replacing strings, playing/performance techniques and building a repertoire of songs and exercises. You will need to bring your own guitar to classes.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Skills attained in Guitar Beginners 1

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course the participants will be able to:
• To read music to the 2nd level/reading music with two voices
• To play barre chords and learn how to find inversions of major, minor and 7th chords
• To increase repertoire of tablature riffs and songs
• Play chord progressions to well-known songs
• Develop skills in picking and strumming techniques
• Play major and minor scales with a mind to improvise.

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

Cost of a method book available from the tutor at the first session. Approximate cost £6.00

For the first session you will need to bring:

One working guitar; acoustic, classical or steel string.

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

Guitar Beginners 3.
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.

Click here to view all courses available

Brief Description:

In the first half of this course you will learn at-home DIY skills: how to use a range of basic hand tools, make a model of an internal wall, and learn how to fix problems around the home. The second half of the course will depend on you. You can learn how to make 5 different wood joints, which will set you up for the improvers DIY & carpentry class. Or you can choose to continue learning in home DIY skills.
You will be shown how to use the tools correctly and how to sharpen/maintain carpentry hand tools.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

This is a course for beginners. No previous experience is necessary.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will have the opportunity to:
Identify and name common hand tools
Know how to maintain carpentry tools
Learn how to use them safely
Produce woodwork joints
Learn how to fix common household problems

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

If you choose to wear Steel Toe Capped Boots (which we recommend), costs start at approx. £20 from hardware stores.
The wood for the joint practice and 6 joint frame will be provided.

For the first session you will need to bring:

If you have any tools at home you would like to practise using and get confident with, feel free to bring these along (for example your battery drill/screwdriver). No sandals, or open-toed shoes are allowed in a workshop setting. Please tie back loose hair and wear sensible clothing. Wear sensible shoes or steel toe capped boots if you have them.

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

DIY Improvers, upholstery or similar.
The Adult Learn and Train office is also 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:

Are you interested in learning British Sign Language (BSL)? This introduction course will give you a taste of BSL.

Explore British Sign Language as a communication, and a language tool.
Topics covered will include deaf awareness, and receptive language skills.

BSL is now a recognised language, if you have always wanted to find out more, get booked onto the short, funded course.

Please note: The timing is different from the programme of courses – 2pm is the correct entry.

This course is 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 is 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?

This course is suitable for learners who are new to signing. No experience needed.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:
• Learn the alphabet
• Introduce yourself in BSL
• Learn signs for colours, weather and transport
• Look at receptive language skills

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

None

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen/Pencil and notepad/paper

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

Level 1 accredited course in BSL.

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:

Are you interested in learning British Sign Language (BSL)? This introduction course will give you a taste of BSL.

Explore British Sign Language as a communication, and a language tool.
Topics covered will include deaf awareness, and receptive language skills.

BSL is now a recognised language, if you have always wanted to find out more, get booked onto the short, funded course.

This course is 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 is 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?

This course is suitable for learners who are new to signing. No experience needed.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:
• Learn the alphabet
• Introduce yourself in BSL
• Learn signs for colours, weather and transport
• Look at receptive language skills

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

None

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen/Pencil and notepad/paper

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

Level 1 accredited course in BSL.

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:

A course centered around working with timber. You will be learning and practicing the following joints: Half Lap, Mortice and Tenon, Dove Tail, T Halving, Bridal and Dowel Joint. Once you are confident with the individual joints, you can extend your learning by producing a five joint frame using all the skills learned constructing the individual joints. These joints are used in every day joinery projects. Once you have mastered these you can go on to make individual projects.
You will be shown how to use the tools correctly and how to sharpen/maintain carpentry hand tools.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

This is a course for beginners. No previous experience is necessary.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will have the opportunity to:
• Identify and name common carpentry tools
• Know how to maintain carpentry tools
• Learn how to use them safely
• Produce woodwork joints

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

If you choose to wear Steel Toe Capped Boots (which we recommend), costs start at approx. £20 from hardware stores.
The wood for the joint practice and 6 joint frame will be provided.

For the first session you will need to bring:

A pencil and notepad. No sandals, or open-toed shoes are allowed in a workshop setting. Hair must also be tied back. You are advised to wear steel toe cap boots in the workshop. Wood for the joints and frame project will be provided.

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

DIY Improvers, upholstery or similar.

The Adult Learn and Train office is also 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:

This Acting Foundation course will offer you a foundation in acting. Working through a variety of theatre games, improvisations and techniques, you will be encouraged to explore your imagination and gain confidence in vocal and physical skills. We will use both contemporary and classical text and progress to in-class presentations of scenes and monologues.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:
• strengthen your ability to speak in public
• gain a basic understanding of a variety of acting techniques
• work on contemporary and classical scenes or monologues

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

There may be an opportunity to purchase a script to use during the class. This would not exceed £10.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Wear comfortable clothing

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

Acting Intermediate – Scene Study course

A higher level acting course.

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  

Techniques and skills will be taught aimed at preparing the learner to play any style of guitar music. The guitar beginners course will provide an introduction to reading music and tablature, tuning and replacing strings, playing techniques and building up a repertoire of songs, chord progressions and guitar riffs.

OUTCOMES OF THE COURSE:

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

Play chord and riffs to well-known songs, read written music and tablature, perform strumming, finger picking and plectrum techniques, play scales with a mind to improvise, replace strings and tune the guitar, recognise music terms and symbols.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED:

None

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

The Guitarist’s Way Book 1 by Peter Nuttall and John Whitworth, Holley Music, approximate cost £6.00

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED:

One working guitar of any kind, (nylon string, steel string or electric) and The Guitarist’s Way Book 1

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:

Creative Writing for Beginners is an eight week course that revolves around exploring the skills and craft of writing fiction. Writing stories for personal pleasure has become a popular pastime again as has writing poetry to post online for others to read and take inspiration from. Engaging in creative pursuits has also been found to relieve anxiety and promote good mental health by providing a focus for concentrated thought. It doesn’t matter whether you want to write as an end it itself or to write with the intention of sharing your work with a wider audience, the well-being benefits come from engaging in the act of harnessing your creative energy. Although as with every craft the more accomplished the finished result, the more appreciation and enjoyment gained.

Creative Writing for Beginners will help you feel more confident in your abilities to communicate your ideas and will also give you the opportunity to experiment in a safe environment with different forms of storytelling to find which gives you the most satisfaction and creative enjoyment. Throughout the course you will learn about putting the skills and craft of storytelling into practice by exploring the components of fiction, and the power of language to create imaginary worlds. Writing exercises to hone the skills and deepen understanding build week by week into a short story, a piece of memoir, a poem. The emphasis is on having a go and learning by doing because there has never been a writer who cannot improve their work by rewriting in the light of feedback given and knowledge or experience gained (even Shakespeare crossed things out and had another go at finding the right word to convey exactly what he intended). Creative Writing for Beginners can’t promise to turn you into a great playwright, but it will give you plenty of opportunities to better appreciate and implement the skills necessary for successful storytelling whilst having fun playing with language along the way.

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Identify writing goals and ways of working to achieve them.
• Give and receive feedback.
• Differentiate the elements required in storytelling.
• Identify the skills of creative writing.
• Write a short story, a piece of non-fiction memoir, and a poem.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

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

None.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen/pencil and paper.

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

Writing Life Stories
Creative Writing for Improvers

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:

Noodles… Don’t we all love Noodles?! How about a whole day of learning some tasty recipes inspired from Malaysian cuisine. You will be using various ingredients and different techniques to create some wonderful dishes.
All ingredients will be supplied for the course; please bring an apron, tea towel and dish cloth and get ready to learn some new recipes. The tutor will demonstrate and explain the dishes. You will then cook them from scratch and take home your delicious meals (or eat them if you can’t wait!)

You will cook curry laksa, Chinese noodles in chilli oil sauce and fried flat rice noodles.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None

Learning Outcomes:

• By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:
  learn 3 recipes
• hand make Chinese noodles

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

None, but please see the list of what to bring below.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Tea towel, apron and dish cloth, a few containers with secured lids.

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

Your tutor will advise you. Book onto another cookery course with Adult Learn and Train.

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:

The last few years have been marked by geopolitical conflict, Ukraine and Israel/Gaza being the main two. In my view this likely to intensify as the Western democratic nations seem to be on a path of decline, leading to the destruction of the current world order. This will have direct economic consequences in terms of the continued increase in the cost of living being currently felt by us all. This course is aimed at anyone who has an interest in, or wants to know about current issues in geopolitics aka International Relations.

Keys topics are:

· Introduction; what are International Relations and how are global events analysed and interpreted using the main schools of thought of IR which are Realism, Constructivism and Neoliberal Institutionalism?

· The current and near future geopolitical outlook.

· The decline of the Western order and the rise of the challengers; China and Russia and their BRIC’s allies.

· How will Britain navigate the hostile waters of the current geopolitical environment?

· Potential conflict in the Asia-Pacific region between a rising superpower in China versus the current world superpower – the United States.

· The rise of global terror.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED:

None, but an interest in current affairs would be advantageous.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

· Ability to understand and analyse key geopolitical events both present and future.

· Understanding of how the international political system works between states.

· Understanding of the hierarchical nature of the international system and how it favours the great powers of the day.

· How Britain may be affected by the shifting geopolitical order.

The course will have an emphasis on interactivity with the use of learning aids such as short quizzes and classroom discussions.

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING

There is no requirement for a course book as one will be provided, it is also recommended that you bring along a pen and paper for note-taking if you wish to do so.

Brief Description:

You will have a very busy five hours working on basic bread making techniques!

You will make four breads: basic wholewheat, soft white rolls, soda bread and pizzas.

You will come away fired up to never buy a loaf of bread from the supermarket again!

The course includes the whole bread making cycle: yeast, mixing, proving, shaping and cooking.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No experience needed – just the desire to make bread.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will have the opportunity to:
 Reliably make bread
 Be aware of some the pitfalls
 Have the confidence to try new breads
 Make great pizzas

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

The tutor will bring the ingredients for the day. A fee has been added to the price to cover the cost of the Ingredients.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Apron, tea towel, dish cloth and a container to take your food home.

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

The college offers lots of exciting cookery classes throughout the year.
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:

For Beginners this course explores the skills and craft of writing and drawing for graphic novels, Zines and comics.

In the realm of self-expression, zines, comics and graphic novels stand as powerful, intimate canvases where words and art intertwine to tell unique and personal stories. Whether you’re a seasoned creator or a complete beginner, this course invites you to dive into this vibrant world, where your imagination takes centre stage, and the medium gives you an opportunity to express the personal stories you carry within.

With the raw authenticity of hand-drawn illustrations in tandem with compelling text you will craft graphic storytelling that resonates and captivates.

You’ll unravel the art of storytelling:
We will start with a combination of exploration of the work of experts, creative writing and drawing activities, then draw out your unique ideas translating them into illustrations and captivating sequences. You’ll understand how graphic storytellers blend words and images, and apply this knowledge to you own storytelling, creating not just pieces of art but windows into your soul.

Characters are at the heart of storytelling. Together, we also will delve into the intricacies of character creation, exploring the nuances of their personalities, backstories, and motivations. From the subtle quirks that make them memorable to the complexities that drive their every action, we’ll unlock the secrets to forging characters that resonate with readers and viewers alike.

This course is more than just a technical journey. It’s an exploration of self, a celebration of your individuality, and a platform for your voice to be heard. Together, we’ll navigate the creative process, from conceptualization to completion, and you’ll leave with not just a collection of graphic storytelling in the form of zines, but a newfound confidence in your ability to share your stories with the world.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No experience necessary, this course is suitable for all.

Learning Outcomes:

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

1. Foundational Character Development Skills:
   • Participants will acquire basic skills to create simple yet expressive autobiographical characters, gaining an understanding of character roles within personal stories.
2. Introduction to Autobiographical Storytelling:
   • Students will develop a foundational grasp of autobiographical storytelling, learning basic story structure, pacing, and the integration of visual and textual elements to create a coherent narrative.
3. Basic Drawing Techniques:
   • By the end of the course, beginners will demonstrate an understanding of drawing techniques for comics and graphic storytelling.
4. Introductory Zine-Making:
   • Participants will acquire introductory skills in creating autobiographical zines, including basic layout design, resulting in a introductory-level project that effectively communicates personal stories in a simple and accessible format.

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

None.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen/Pencil and Paper.

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

Diving deeper into creative writing and graphic novels.

Further development in drawing techniques.

Further development in multimodal storytelling.

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:

On this 8 week course you will look into the world of Criminology. This course is for anybody who has an interest in criminology with no previous qualifications or experience in this field necessary. The outcomes of this course are to give the learner an insight into what criminology is and what it is not. Also, we will take a general overview of the crime picture in the UK, and how it is dealt with in terms of the policing and courts system.

Crime is a major issue in society, it makes some people afraid, for others it is a way of life but for the majority of the public there is an interest which has given birth to a whole industry in fiction and non-fiction storytelling via films, books and magazines. Crime ranges from the non-violent and trivial to serious and violent (including murder). This course looks at various topics including; the definition of crime, the causes of crime, types of crime, who is a criminal, reporting crime and why it is important, who are the victims of crime, a brief overview of the criminal justice system and why are we so fascinated and appalled by crime.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience or knowledge is required, but a keen interest in criminology or other social sciences would be an advantage.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will have:

• Gain a general overview of the crime picture in the UK, and how it is dealt with in terms of the policing and courts system.
• Contribute in a meaningful way to criminological debates.
• Understand how media representations of crime can manipulate public opinions and perceptions of crime.
• Understand the social, political and economic implications of crime.

For the first session you will need to bring….

Please bring along a pen and notepad for note taking.

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

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

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
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.

Brief Description:

This is a new course that has come about due to many requests from learners that
have completed Guitar for Beginners 1, 2 and 3. The emphasis will be to hone in and
develop the many techniques and skills that were introduced in the first three courses.

More time will be allocated to individual pieces promoting an ensemble style with
separate contributions from the learners such as accompaniment, rhythm, melody and
improvised lead guitar.

The course will run for all three terms with new projects assigned at the start of
each term meaning that those that have just started the course will be able to participate
from the start.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Skills and experience gained from attending Guitar for Beginners 1,2 and 3

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Participate in ensemble/group performances of completed pieces first introduced in earlier
  courses.
• Participate in ensemble/group renditions of pieces first introduced in earlier
  courses.
• Increase understanding and ability of skills gained.
• Further develop skills in reading music
• Benefit from participating and sharing with the other learners in the group
• Discuss elements of guitar playing from experience and hindsight

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

Guitarist’s Way by Peter Nuttall and John Whitworth, book 2

For the first session you will need to bring:

One working guitar and all the material provided in Guitar for Beginners 1,2 and 3
On completion of this course, what might your next steps be

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
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:

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

You should have completed the Acting Foundation course, or have had some acting training.

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

None

For the first session you will need to bring:

Wear comfortable clothing

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

A higher level acting course.

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:

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED:

None.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

• Ability to understand and analyse key geopolitical events both present and future.
• Understanding of how the international political system works between states.
• Understanding of the hierarchical nature of the international system and how it favours the great powers of the day.

By the end of the course you will have: A good understanding of how the international system works and how states interact in this system.

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING

Please bring along a pen and notebook for note-taking.

Brief Description:

In the first half of this course you will learn at-home DIY skills: how to use a range of basic hand tools, make a model of an internal wall, and learn how to fix problems around the home. The second half of the course will depend on you. You can learn how to make 5 different wood joints, which will set you up for the improvers DIY & carpentry class. Or you can choose to continue learning in home DIY skills.
You will be shown how to use the tools correctly and how to sharpen/maintain carpentry hand tools.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

This is a course for beginners. No previous experience is necessary.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will have the opportunity to:
Identify and name common hand tools
Know how to maintain carpentry tools
Learn how to use them safely
Produce woodwork joints
Learn how to fix common household problems

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

If you choose to wear Steel Toe Capped Boots (which we recommend), costs start at approx. £20 from hardware stores.
The wood for the joint practice and 6 joint frame will be provided.

For the first session you will need to bring:

If you have any tools at home you would like to practise using and get confident with, feel free to bring these along (for example your battery drill/screwdriver). No sandals, or open-toed shoes are allowed in a workshop setting. Please tie back loose hair and wear sensible clothing. Wear sensible shoes or steel toe capped boots if you have them.

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

DIY Improvers, upholstery or similar.
The Adult Learn and Train office is also 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

This course is suitable for you if you are a beginner with little musical knowledge or experience (approximately 20 hours experience). Techniques and skills will be aimed at preparing you to play any style of guitar music. The course will provide an introduction to reading music and tablature, successful tuning and replacing strings, playing/performance techniques and building a repertoire of songs and exercises. You will need to bring your own guitar to classes.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Skills attained in Guitar Beginners 1

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course the participants will be able to:
• To read music to the 2nd level/reading music with two voices
• To play barre chords and learn how to find inversions of major, minor and 7th chords
• To increase repertoire of tablature riffs and songs
• Play chord progressions to well-known songs
• Develop skills in picking and strumming techniques
• Play major and minor scales with a mind to improvise.

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

Cost of a method book available from the tutor at the first session. Approximate cost £6.00

For the first session you will need to bring:

One working guitar; acoustic, classical or steel string.

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

Guitar Beginners 3.
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.

Click here to view all courses available

Brief Description:

Are you interested in learning British Sign Language (BSL)? This introduction course will give you a taste of BSL.

Explore British Sign Language as a communication, and a language tool.
Topics covered will include deaf awareness, and receptive language skills.

BSL is now a recognised language, if you have always wanted to find out more, get booked onto the short, funded course.

Please note: The timing is different from the programme of courses – 2pm is the correct entry.

This course is 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 is 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?

This course is suitable for learners who are new to signing. No experience needed.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:
• Learn the alphabet
• Introduce yourself in BSL
• Learn signs for colours, weather and transport
• Look at receptive language skills

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

None

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen/Pencil and notepad/paper

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

Level 1 accredited course in BSL.

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:

Are you interested in learning British Sign Language (BSL)? This introduction course will give you a taste of BSL.

Explore British Sign Language as a communication, and a language tool.
Topics covered will include deaf awareness, and receptive language skills.

BSL is now a recognised language, if you have always wanted to find out more, get booked onto the short, funded course.

This course is 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 is 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?

This course is suitable for learners who are new to signing. No experience needed.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:
• Learn the alphabet
• Introduce yourself in BSL
• Learn signs for colours, weather and transport
• Look at receptive language skills

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

None

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen/Pencil and notepad/paper

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

Level 1 accredited course in BSL.

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:

A course centered around working with timber. You will be learning and practicing the following joints: Half Lap, Mortice and Tenon, Dove Tail, T Halving, Bridal and Dowel Joint. Once you are confident with the individual joints, you can extend your learning by producing a five joint frame using all the skills learned constructing the individual joints. These joints are used in every day joinery projects. Once you have mastered these you can go on to make individual projects.
You will be shown how to use the tools correctly and how to sharpen/maintain carpentry hand tools.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

This is a course for beginners. No previous experience is necessary.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course you will have the opportunity to:
• Identify and name common carpentry tools
• Know how to maintain carpentry tools
• Learn how to use them safely
• Produce woodwork joints

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

If you choose to wear Steel Toe Capped Boots (which we recommend), costs start at approx. £20 from hardware stores.
The wood for the joint practice and 6 joint frame will be provided.

For the first session you will need to bring:

A pencil and notepad. No sandals, or open-toed shoes are allowed in a workshop setting. Hair must also be tied back. You are advised to wear steel toe cap boots in the workshop. Wood for the joints and frame project will be provided.

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

DIY Improvers, upholstery or similar.

The Adult Learn and Train office is also 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:

Creative Writing for Beginners is an eight week course that revolves around exploring the skills and craft of writing fiction. Writing stories for personal pleasure has become a popular pastime again as has writing poetry to post online for others to read and take inspiration from. Engaging in creative pursuits has also been found to relieve anxiety and promote good mental health by providing a focus for concentrated thought. It doesn’t matter whether you want to write as an end it itself or to write with the intention of sharing your work with a wider audience, the well-being benefits come from engaging in the act of harnessing your creative energy. Although as with every craft the more accomplished the finished result, the more appreciation and enjoyment gained.

Creative Writing for Beginners will help you feel more confident in your abilities to communicate your ideas and will also give you the opportunity to experiment in a safe environment with different forms of storytelling to find which gives you the most satisfaction and creative enjoyment. Throughout the course you will learn about putting the skills and craft of storytelling into practice by exploring the components of fiction, and the power of language to create imaginary worlds. Writing exercises to hone the skills and deepen understanding build week by week into a short story, a piece of memoir, a poem. The emphasis is on having a go and learning by doing because there has never been a writer who cannot improve their work by rewriting in the light of feedback given and knowledge or experience gained (even Shakespeare crossed things out and had another go at finding the right word to convey exactly what he intended). Creative Writing for Beginners can’t promise to turn you into a great playwright, but it will give you plenty of opportunities to better appreciate and implement the skills necessary for successful storytelling whilst having fun playing with language along the way.

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Identify writing goals and ways of working to achieve them.
• Give and receive feedback.
• Differentiate the elements required in storytelling.
• Identify the skills of creative writing.
• Write a short story, a piece of non-fiction memoir, and a poem.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

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

None.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen/pencil and paper.

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

Writing Life Stories
Creative Writing for Improvers

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 Acting Foundation course will offer you a foundation in acting. Working through a variety of theatre games, improvisations and techniques, you will be encouraged to explore your imagination and gain confidence in vocal and physical skills. We will use both contemporary and classical text and progress to in-class presentations of scenes and monologues.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to:
• strengthen your ability to speak in public
• gain a basic understanding of a variety of acting techniques
• work on contemporary and classical scenes or monologues

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

There may be an opportunity to purchase a script to use during the class. This would not exceed £10.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Wear comfortable clothing

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

Acting Intermediate – Scene Study course

A higher level acting course.

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.