Learning for all ages
In a recent editorial, The Guardian argued that adult education is about more than qualifications. Reflecting on a new report from MPs, it highlighted how "acquiring new skills can be a first step on a longer journey – a way to begin to imagine different futures".
At Trinity, we're seeing that play out through our adult learning programme.
Working in partnership with SGS College and Bristol School of Art, we've recently welcomed the third cohort of learners onto our Employability Through Arts & Crafts: Skills for Life and Work course. The 15-week accredited programme was developed specifically for Trinity and uses creative activities to support learners to develop communication, teamwork and employability skills.
The programme builds on several years of work with local partners to create accessible adult learning opportunities in our community. Many participants are referred through organisations including Bristol Drugs Project, Horizons, inHope, Aidbox Community, The Junction Project and local health centres, helping people access learning in a familiar and supportive environment.
The course has already supported learners to progress on to further study through SGS College and Bristol School of Art. Others have gone on to volunteer with arts-based projects at Trinity and partner organisations including St Paul's Carnival.
This year's intake has also seen an increase in the number of participants. While the first two cohorts each welcomed around three learners, the current cohort began with 10 people enrolled and attending weekly sessions. The most recent learners have become some of the programme's strongest advocates. Several returned to support taster sessions, sharing their workbooks and experiences with prospective participants and encouraging others to sign up.
The Guardian editorial also notes that "learning can contribute to health and wellbeing" and highlights the importance of relationships in adult education. That resonates strongly with what participants tell us about the course, where shared learning and creativity have helped build connections between people from different backgrounds.
"This course provided a real sense of a community working together which has been so good for me."
At a time when adult education is receiving national attention, this programme demonstrates the value of local, community-based learning. Alongside qualifications and progression routes, it creates space for people to learn together, build meaningful relationships and take part in arts activity that supports their wider health and wellbeing.
Find out more about our community programme and explore upcoming events here.
