Learning for Pleasure

Welcome to the University of York’s 2011/12 programme for our adult evening and day classes – we are once again delighted to offer you an even larger selection of courses to choose from this year, so whether you’re looking to study whilst balancing the demands of a busy life, are looking to improve your employability, are retired and wish to return to learning, or just have an interest you wish to pursue, there’s sure to be something within the programme. And to help you get started, we are hosting an open day event at King’s Manor for you to meet the tutors and find out more on 6 th September.

The previous academic year saw the beginning of the Centre’s 25 th anniversary celebrations – it has been a privilege to serve the local community for quarter of a century. Over the course of the last twenty-five years, we have developed from being a small office coordinating departmental activities to being the leading provider in an array of disciplines both locally and internationally, and we aim to continue making an impact within the wide variety of communities in which we operate. Our collective teaching pool was also delighted this year to receive a Vice-Chancellor's Gold Award for Outstanding Achievement, which is a testimony to their continued excellence and dedication in the classroom.

In response to an uncertain economic climate, we have added a new collection of courses to our portfolio this year which will give you skills in a range of areas. These sit alongside our ever-popular learning for pleasure programme which has once again expanded to take account of the growing knowledge base at the university. Saturday schools too are once more prevalent, and the variety of disciplines now on offer at the weekend continues to broaden this year. Whilst you are browsing, don’t forget to keep an eye out for our distance learning courses which offer true flexibility – learners need only a basic knowledge of IT to engage, and we are on hand to offer advice along the way.

2011/12 sees two new awards on offer in the form of certificates in Social Enterprise and Heritage Studies. Both of these programmes can be completed in a single academic year, so for those seeking to add to their CV quickly, make an ideal way to engage. All of the modules throughout the accredited programme, which range from creative writing and art history through to psychology and social policy, remain open access, so all you need is enthusiasm if you want to get back in the classroom – and with free introductory Saturday sessions also on offer, you can get a flavour of what’s involved before you sign up.

Teaching Methods

Most of our courses are taught by a combination of short lectures and class discussions. Class sizes are often small to facilitate friendly discussions and tutors will frequently use visual aids. Some courses also have visits or fieldwork attached to them.

Our courses are taught by a range of dedicated, friendly and approachable staff who will provide the support that you need on both our non-accredited and accredited options.

Students with special requirements

As an inclusive learning community, we are keen to ensure that students with disabilities are not disadvantaged in studying and we are committed to providing access and care whenever possible. We do need to be aware of this important information however, and would ask you to indicate any special requirements on your booking form.

It is you the student who brings our courses to life and we hope you enjoy broadening your horizons with the Centre in the upcoming academic year.

Lesley C Booth BA MSc
Director of Community Relations and Lifelong Learning

 

Last Updated: July 20, 2011 | Iain Barr (ijb3@york.ac.uk)

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