Day: Monday

Brief Description:

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

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

Eligibility to gain a funded place:

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

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

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Greetings and introductions; asking and answering questions about yourself and others.
• Jobs and occupations, daily routines, everyday language, time expressions for what you do.
• Describing where you live, the local area and facilities, directions and adverbs of place.
• Weekend activities, making invitations and plans, asking and answering questions.
• Talking about actions happening now, feelings and emotions, using common gestures.
• Shopping and travel, transport and asking for what you need.

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

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

For the first session you will need to bring:

Notebook and pen/pencil

Examination Fees:

There is no exam attached to this course

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

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

Brief Description:

How to Paint Like a Famous Artist

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

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

Course Aims

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

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

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

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

Brief Description:

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

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

Eligibility to gain a funded place:

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

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

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Greetings and introductions; asking and answering questions about yourself and others.
• Jobs and occupations, daily routines, everyday language, time expressions for what you do.
• Describing where you live, the local area and facilities, directions and adverbs of place.
• Weekend activities, making invitations and plans, asking and answering questions.
• Talking about actions happening now, feelings and emotions, using common gestures.
• Shopping and travel, transport and asking for what you need.

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

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

For the first session you will need to bring:

Notebook and pen/pencil

Examination Fees:

There is no exam attached to this course

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

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

Drawing Skills Brief Description:

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

Previous Experience needed:

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

Aims of the course:

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

Course Outcomes:

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

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

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

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING:

Nothing for the first session

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED?

No previous experience or knowledge is required.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

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

• Develop an understanding of key principles

• Become familiar with the basic exercise set

• Begin a home practice for stress relief and wellbeing

• Improve posture and breathing

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

EXTRA COSTS ON THE COURSE FOR EXAMPLE TEXT BOOK,

None.

FOR THE FIRST SESSION you will need:

Wear comfortable clothes and enough space to move freely

Brief Description:

This short Maths Functional Skills get started course, runs for 11 hours, and is for adults who need to begin to learn Maths again. It will help you to feel more confident in using numbers for everyday situations involving money, time, distance, shape and position.
The course will be held in centre at Parkside Community College, Parkside, CB1 1EH.
No previous experience is required. Please contact the office if you have qualifications from outside the UK to check equivalency.
This course is key to you finding out about the full year course. It will include introductory sessions on Number, Measure, Data, guidance about which level you are working at and an overview of the Functional Skills syllabus and assessments. Work will be set each week, to be completed before the following lesson. An individual learning plan will be completed weekly with your tutor.
The course is fully funded by Cambridgeshire Skills – full attendance is required. You will complete an enrolment form, so that funding can be applied for; you will also need to provide your National Insurance number and show a form of photographic ID (passport, driving licence etc.)
On completion of this course, the tutor will advise about enrolling on the full year Functional Skills Maths course (Entry 2 to Level 2); this runs November to May.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience required. Please email the office if you have qualifications from outside the UK to check equivalency.

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

Enrol in the full Functional Skills Maths course starting in November.
The Adult Learn and Train office is also able to give course information or search for alternative courses for you.

Brief Description:

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No experience needed.

Learning Outcomes:

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

First Term:

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

Second Term:

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

Third Term:

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

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

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

For the first session you will need to have available:

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

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

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

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

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

Brief Description:

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

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

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

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED?

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

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

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

EXAMINATION FEES

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

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING

A4 file, notebook and pen / pencil

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

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

Brief description:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

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

Learning Outcomes

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

• Greetings and introductions, asking and answering questions about work and home, use of social media, applying for a job.
• Free time activities; explaining why you like or do not like something, comparing things, making and responding to suggestions.
• Memories and past experiences, narrating a story in the past using descriptive language.
• Future plans and changes, describing what you want to do in the future and giving advice on how to achieve a goal. Different uses of future tenses (will, going to.)
• Travel and vacation vocabulary, describing the weather, discussing places you want to visit and things you want to do, giving advice.

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

The tutor will advise in the first lesson

For the first session you will need to bring:

A notebook and pen and pencil.

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

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

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

Brief Description

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

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

None

For the first session you will need to bring:

Paper and pen/pencil.

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

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

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

Brief Description:

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience necessary. All ability levels welcome.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

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

For the first session you will need to bring:

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

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

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

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

Brief Description

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Learners should have already studied Spanish for 60 hours, or have a basic knowledge of the language.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

Aula International 2. – Link to follow

For the first session you will need to bring:

Notebook and pen

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

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

Brief Description

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience or knowledge is required.

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

Term 1:

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

Term 2:

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

Term 3:

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

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

Recommended but not required:

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

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen and Paper

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

Download this app and play around with it: Pleco

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

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

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

Brief Description

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

The course will include tuition in:

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

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

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

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

  Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience or knowledge is required.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

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

None.

For the first session you will need to bring:

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

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

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

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

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

Brief Description:

Train the mind to reduce stress by taking time to unplug from a busy schedule and connect with what matters most to you. Are you ready to find a different way of dealing with stress, anxiety and feeling low? Would you like to learn to still your busy mind and switch off in order to fully relax? Mindfulness meditation, if practiced regularly, can help you to take better care of your health and wellbeing. This eight-week programme will teach you different ways of meditating, so that you can adapt how you practice to your lifestyle. By learning as a group, you will support each other to challenge learnt behaviours and habits that may be contributing to feeling stressed and far from your best.  

N.B: So that you can adapt your practice to suit your lifestyle mobile phones to be switched off during the class. 

 Please note:

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 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?

This course is open to beginners to mindfulness meditation, as well as those with some experience, who wish to develop practice and confidence. The teaching approach is experiential, rather than academic, and invites learners to commit to practising meditation at home daily, in order to consolidate the new skills learnt. 

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Be competent and confident in your personal meditation practice 
• Have a deeper understanding of the science of stress and its impact on behaviours 
• Exercise the ability to intervene at an earlier stage in the stress build-up and reduce its impact on wellbeing 
• Connect with others to support home-practice and create a social support network 
• Practice silence for up to 20 minutes in each meditation practice 

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

Learners will need a fresh and personalised notebook, in which to journal, as well as a set of coloured pens/ pencils. Notebooks will be provided if needed.

Bringing a small cushion and shawl/ small blanket will help learners feel more comfortable, when practising outdoors inclement weather 

For the first session you will need to bring:

Learners will need a fresh and personalised notebook, in which to journal, as well as a set of coloured pens/ pencils. 

Bringing a small cushion and shawl/ small blanket will help learners feel more comfortable, when practising outdoors inclement weather 

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

Talk to your health care providers, e.g. social prescriber, about how mindfulness meditation can support your wellbeing along with other treatment and social support options. 

To continue practicing at home and integrating the new skills into your lifestyle 

To connect with local meditation practice networks via social media   

To explore the origins of secular mindfulness meditation by exploring its spiritual dimension at  at the Cambridge Buddhist Centre 

To download an app to support home-practice. 

Brief Description:

How to Paint Like a Famous Artist

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

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

Course Aims

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

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

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

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

Brief Description:

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

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

Eligibility to gain a funded place:

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

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

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Greetings and introductions; asking and answering questions about yourself and others.
• Jobs and occupations, daily routines, everyday language, time expressions for what you do.
• Describing where you live, the local area and facilities, directions and adverbs of place.
• Weekend activities, making invitations and plans, asking and answering questions.
• Talking about actions happening now, feelings and emotions, using common gestures.
• Shopping and travel, transport and asking for what you need.

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

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

For the first session you will need to bring:

Notebook and pen/pencil

Examination Fees:

There is no exam attached to this course

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

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

Brief Description:

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

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

Eligibility to gain a funded place:

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

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

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Greetings and introductions; asking and answering questions about yourself and others.
• Jobs and occupations, daily routines, everyday language, time expressions for what you do.
• Describing where you live, the local area and facilities, directions and adverbs of place.
• Weekend activities, making invitations and plans, asking and answering questions.
• Talking about actions happening now, feelings and emotions, using common gestures.
• Shopping and travel, transport and asking for what you need.

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

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

For the first session you will need to bring:

Notebook and pen/pencil

Examination Fees:

There is no exam attached to this course

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

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

Drawing Skills Brief Description:

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

Previous Experience needed:

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

Aims of the course:

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

Course Outcomes:

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

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

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

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING:

Nothing for the first session

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED?

No previous experience or knowledge is required.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

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

• Develop an understanding of key principles

• Become familiar with the basic exercise set

• Begin a home practice for stress relief and wellbeing

• Improve posture and breathing

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

EXTRA COSTS ON THE COURSE FOR EXAMPLE TEXT BOOK,

None.

FOR THE FIRST SESSION you will need:

Wear comfortable clothes and enough space to move freely

Brief Description:

This short Maths Functional Skills get started course, runs for 11 hours, and is for adults who need to begin to learn Maths again. It will help you to feel more confident in using numbers for everyday situations involving money, time, distance, shape and position.
The course will be held in centre at Parkside Community College, Parkside, CB1 1EH.
No previous experience is required. Please contact the office if you have qualifications from outside the UK to check equivalency.
This course is key to you finding out about the full year course. It will include introductory sessions on Number, Measure, Data, guidance about which level you are working at and an overview of the Functional Skills syllabus and assessments. Work will be set each week, to be completed before the following lesson. An individual learning plan will be completed weekly with your tutor.
The course is fully funded by Cambridgeshire Skills – full attendance is required. You will complete an enrolment form, so that funding can be applied for; you will also need to provide your National Insurance number and show a form of photographic ID (passport, driving licence etc.)
On completion of this course, the tutor will advise about enrolling on the full year Functional Skills Maths course (Entry 2 to Level 2); this runs November to May.

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience required. Please email the office if you have qualifications from outside the UK to check equivalency.

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

Enrol in the full Functional Skills Maths course starting in November.
The Adult Learn and Train office is also able to give course information or search for alternative courses for you.

Brief Description:

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No experience needed.

Learning Outcomes:

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

First Term:

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

Second Term:

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

Third Term:

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

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

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

For the first session you will need to have available:

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

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

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

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

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

Brief Description:

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

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

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

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED?

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

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

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

EXAMINATION FEES

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

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING

A4 file, notebook and pen / pencil

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

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

Brief description:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

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

Learning Outcomes

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

• Greetings and introductions, asking and answering questions about work and home, use of social media, applying for a job.
• Free time activities; explaining why you like or do not like something, comparing things, making and responding to suggestions.
• Memories and past experiences, narrating a story in the past using descriptive language.
• Future plans and changes, describing what you want to do in the future and giving advice on how to achieve a goal. Different uses of future tenses (will, going to.)
• Travel and vacation vocabulary, describing the weather, discussing places you want to visit and things you want to do, giving advice.

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

The tutor will advise in the first lesson

For the first session you will need to bring:

A notebook and pen and pencil.

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

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

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

Brief Description

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Learners should have already studied Spanish for 60 hours, or have a basic knowledge of the language.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

Aula International 2. – Link to follow

For the first session you will need to bring:

Notebook and pen

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

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

Brief Description:

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience necessary. All ability levels welcome.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

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

For the first session you will need to bring:

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

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

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

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

Brief Description

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

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

None

For the first session you will need to bring:

Paper and pen/pencil.

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

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

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

Brief Description

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience or knowledge is required.

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

Term 1:

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

Term 2:

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

Term 3:

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

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

Recommended but not required:

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

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen and Paper

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

Download this app and play around with it: Pleco

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

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

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

Brief Description

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

The course will include tuition in:

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

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

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

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

  Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience or knowledge is required.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

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

None.

For the first session you will need to bring:

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

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

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

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

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

Brief Description:

Train the mind to reduce stress by taking time to unplug from a busy schedule and connect with what matters most to you. Are you ready to find a different way of dealing with stress, anxiety and feeling low? Would you like to learn to still your busy mind and switch off in order to fully relax? Mindfulness meditation, if practiced regularly, can help you to take better care of your health and wellbeing. This eight-week programme will teach you different ways of meditating, so that you can adapt how you practice to your lifestyle. By learning as a group, you will support each other to challenge learnt behaviours and habits that may be contributing to feeling stressed and far from your best.  

N.B: So that you can adapt your practice to suit your lifestyle mobile phones to be switched off during the class. 

 Please note:

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 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?

This course is open to beginners to mindfulness meditation, as well as those with some experience, who wish to develop practice and confidence. The teaching approach is experiential, rather than academic, and invites learners to commit to practising meditation at home daily, in order to consolidate the new skills learnt. 

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Be competent and confident in your personal meditation practice 
• Have a deeper understanding of the science of stress and its impact on behaviours 
• Exercise the ability to intervene at an earlier stage in the stress build-up and reduce its impact on wellbeing 
• Connect with others to support home-practice and create a social support network 
• Practice silence for up to 20 minutes in each meditation practice 

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

Learners will need a fresh and personalised notebook, in which to journal, as well as a set of coloured pens/ pencils. Notebooks will be provided if needed.

Bringing a small cushion and shawl/ small blanket will help learners feel more comfortable, when practising outdoors inclement weather 

For the first session you will need to bring:

Learners will need a fresh and personalised notebook, in which to journal, as well as a set of coloured pens/ pencils. 

Bringing a small cushion and shawl/ small blanket will help learners feel more comfortable, when practising outdoors inclement weather 

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

Talk to your health care providers, e.g. social prescriber, about how mindfulness meditation can support your wellbeing along with other treatment and social support options. 

To continue practicing at home and integrating the new skills into your lifestyle 

To connect with local meditation practice networks via social media   

To explore the origins of secular mindfulness meditation by exploring its spiritual dimension at  at the Cambridge Buddhist Centre 

To download an app to support home-practice. 

Brief Description

Psychology is the study of human behaviour. It takes the form of a number of different approaches, including biological, psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioural and social theories. This course explores the richness of human functions and uncovers the secrets behind the brain, revealing its complexities and answering questions about how and why we behave, how do we remember, and why do we forget? Why do we like to eat, drink, sleep and have sex? Why do we conform and whom do we obey? Why and how do we fall in love? How do relationships break up?
This course is appropriate for gaining understanding of psychology and in preparation for more specialised courses.
It is a fascinating journey and we encourage all who are interested in the science of mind and behaviour to begin their studies here.

Previous Experience and Knowledge needed?

No

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course you will have the opportunity to:
1. Demonstrate understanding of the key approaches in Psychology
2. Demonstrate understanding of different brain structures and their function in humans
3. Describe where and how memories are formed
4. Identify and explain one psychological theory of choice. (Written Assignment by lesson 7)
5. Identify how knowledge learned on the course could be used in future career / personal progression.

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

No extra costs are incurred. However, if you are serious about studying Psychology thoroughly, we recommend the following text:
The Psychology of Mind and Behaviour. Richard Gross (2010) ISBN 10: 144410831X
This text will greatly enhance your learning experience.

For the first session you will need to bring:

Paper and pen for note taking.

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

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

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

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

Previous Experience:

This is a beginners course, no experience required.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

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

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

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

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

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING

A notebook and pen

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

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

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

This course will be held face to face in centre.

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

Brief Description:

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

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

Eligibility to gain a funded place:

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

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

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Greetings and introductions; asking and answering questions about yourself and others.
• Jobs and occupations, daily routines, everyday language, time expressions for what you do.
• Describing where you live, the local area and facilities, directions and adverbs of place.
• Weekend activities, making invitations and plans, asking and answering questions.
• Talking about actions happening now, feelings and emotions, using common gestures.
• Shopping and travel, transport and asking for what you need.

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

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

For the first session you will need to bring:

Notebook and pen/pencil

Examination Fees:

There is no exam attached to this course

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

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

Brief Description:

How to Paint Like a Famous Artist

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

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

Course Aims

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

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

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

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

Brief Description:

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

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

Eligibility to gain a funded place:

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

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

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Greetings and introductions; asking and answering questions about yourself and others.
• Jobs and occupations, daily routines, everyday language, time expressions for what you do.
• Describing where you live, the local area and facilities, directions and adverbs of place.
• Weekend activities, making invitations and plans, asking and answering questions.
• Talking about actions happening now, feelings and emotions, using common gestures.
• Shopping and travel, transport and asking for what you need.

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

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

For the first session you will need to bring:

Notebook and pen/pencil

Examination Fees:

There is no exam attached to this course

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

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

Drawing Skills Brief Description:

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

Previous Experience needed:

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

Aims of the course:

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

Course Outcomes:

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

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

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

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING:

Nothing for the first session

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED?

No previous experience or knowledge is required.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

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

• Develop an understanding of key principles

• Become familiar with the basic exercise set

• Begin a home practice for stress relief and wellbeing

• Improve posture and breathing

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

EXTRA COSTS ON THE COURSE FOR EXAMPLE TEXT BOOK,

None.

FOR THE FIRST SESSION you will need:

Wear comfortable clothes and enough space to move freely

Brief Description:

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No experience needed.

Learning Outcomes:

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

First Term:

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

Second Term:

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

Third Term:

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

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

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

For the first session you will need to have available:

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

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

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

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

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

Brief Description:

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

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

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

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED?

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

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

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

EXAMINATION FEES

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

FOR THE FIRST SESSION YOU WILL NEED TO BRING

A4 file, notebook and pen / pencil

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

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

Brief description:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

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

Learning Outcomes

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

• Greetings and introductions, asking and answering questions about work and home, use of social media, applying for a job.
• Free time activities; explaining why you like or do not like something, comparing things, making and responding to suggestions.
• Memories and past experiences, narrating a story in the past using descriptive language.
• Future plans and changes, describing what you want to do in the future and giving advice on how to achieve a goal. Different uses of future tenses (will, going to.)
• Travel and vacation vocabulary, describing the weather, discussing places you want to visit and things you want to do, giving advice.

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

The tutor will advise in the first lesson

For the first session you will need to bring:

A notebook and pen and pencil.

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

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

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

Brief Description

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

None.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

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

None

For the first session you will need to bring:

Paper and pen/pencil.

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

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

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

Brief Description

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

Learners should have already studied Spanish for 60 hours, or have a basic knowledge of the language.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

Aula International 2. – Link to follow

For the first session you will need to bring:

Notebook and pen

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

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

Brief Description:

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience necessary. All ability levels welcome.

Learning Outcomes:

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

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

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

For the first session you will need to bring:

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

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

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

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

Brief Description

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

Previous Experience and Knowledge Needed?

No previous experience or knowledge is required.

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

Term 1:

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

Term 2:

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

Term 3:

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

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

Recommended but not required:

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

For the first session you will need to bring:

Pen and Paper

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

Download this app and play around with it: Pleco

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

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

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