As 2023 comes to a close and we take stock of our countless unfulfilled resolutions, we prepare once again to pitch ourselves headlong into the new year with even more resolve to finally nurture a hobby, master a craft and foster our neglected passions. Thankfully, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive guide to all the adult learning courses and workshops you can get involved with in 2024.
From learning a language and Indian cooking classes and painting workshops and the art of wine, there is an abundance of courses and one-off sessions to get stuck into across Greater Manchester in the new year. Take a look through a few of our favourites below…
Head down to Altrincham’s 35 Design Space where you can unlock your inner artist, creating three canvases which you’ll be able to take home and hang proudly. In this three-hour session, you will learn how to make pouring paint art whilst enjoying tea, coffee and cake. No experience is required but it is recommended you bring clothes that you do not mind getting stained.
If becoming bilingual is on your list, head to Cactus where you can learn a variety of languages from any level of starting experience. In the ten-week courses, you will get 20 hours’ worth of lessons in small groups of five. This is an excellent option for those who have long-term learning goals or simply wish to prepare for a trip abroad.
Ever been interested in learning how to act? The Performers’ playground has you covered. In their 12-week programme, you can train in a range of approaches to acting and theatre making including Le Jeu, (the game of theatre), Neutral Mask, Text Play, Mask Play, Clown, Bouffon and more. You’ll accumulate 252 hours’ worth of lessons throughout the course, prepping you for your curtain call…
Looking to impress at your next dinner party? This three-hour event will guide you through the vibrant world of Indian flavours, from aromatic spices to mouthwatering curries, you’ll gain hands-on experience in preparing traditional dishes that capture the essence of Indian cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a complete novice this session is designed to cater to all skill levels.
In this relaxing workshop, you will harness the tactile nature of clay and use it as an aid in mindful breathing techniques, helping you release daily stresses. The class is aimed at anyone from beginners to seasoned potters. However, they suggest that you bring relaxed clothing or an apron as clay can be messy.
Do you play an instrument and want to experience playing alongside other musicians? Whether you’re a guitarist, bassist, drummer, pianist or singer, this course provides an opportunity to come together and get a feel for playing as a band. Sessions are on a drop-in basis and you will be split up into groups based on age and skill level. There will also be a chance to perform further down the line at the school’s showcase.
Formed in 2014, the Northern Wine School has quickly established itself as the region’s pre-eminent scholastic institute for wines and spirits. From beginner courses to advanced programmes on grape-growing, the school offers a comprehensive trajectory for enthusiasts to become experts. They also offer accredited courses on spirits and sake.
Welcoming all levels from beginner to professional, Bee Creative holds captivating life drawing classes – featuring models of all shapes and ethnicities – on Wednesday evenings in Peter Street’s Impossible Bar. With the promise to make life drawing a fun experience, Bee Creative invites guests to experiment with styles, techniques and form at any pace they wish.
You can book a ‘student paper and board’ ticket for just £12.99, or have all materials provided for £22.99.
Alongside renowned culinary classes on every cuisine and festive occasion imaginable, Food Sorcery’s Cooking Together programme offers beginners and seasoned cooks alike the chance to create menu favourites with mates and an expert chef, in an atmosphere which is ‘as much about chatting and relaxing as it is about learning and eating’. Featuring sessions on Korean, Japanese, Mexican, American, Sri Lankan, steak and more, as well as Parent and Teen classes, Food Sorcery is South Manchester’s gastronomic haven for every ability and appetite.
Perfect for both complete beginners and regular attendees, Merseyway Workshop’s 4-Week Throwing Course promises a welcoming yet comprehensive introduction to the potter’s wheel, with intimate and insightful tutelage from a group of experts in the cosy Stockport studio. At the end of the month-long class, participants can walk away with their own set of glazed mugs and bowls.
Click here to book onto the Wednesday course, or book your Tuesday sessions via the link below.
Operating out of Hope Mill, Creative Art Courses offer a two-day weekend course which caters to ‘absolute beginners’ in a comprehensive, welcoming step-by-step introduction to drawing and painting. Using different tools and styles, participants will learn to ‘banish their worries and confusion’ and discover their ability to create fine art with joy and confidence.
Click the link below to check out the full course structure and book your place.
- Words:
- Brad Lengden
- Published on:
- Mon 2 Jan 2023
Perhaps better known as one of Manchester’s most iconic and diverse live venues, Band on the wall also hosts a Folk and World choir every Tuesday.
Here you can learn a range of songs from contemporary classics to traditional folk songs, discovering how to get the most out of your voice all whilst making new friends. All songs are learned by ear, so there is no need to be able to read music, ensuring anyone can head down and take part.