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Find a Just for Fun Course

What are just for fun courses all about?

Learn something new, have fun and make new friends. These courses are great for your personal development and wellbeing. View our Adult Learning Prospectus as a flipbook.

Why choose a Just for Fun course at UCM?

  • We have a wide range of course for all interests and abilities
  • We have high quality learning environments and facilities that suit the course topic
  • We have experienced tutors who are passionate about what they do
  • We deliver courses across a wide range of venues on the island (view the map)

Frequently asked questions

Got a question? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions. 

How to book

How to ENROL for these courses:

  1. Visit the UCM Learner Portal to enrol online. Follow the link to the portal, add the course and any others to your basket. https://prospect.ucm.ac.im/page/findcourse
  2. Log into your existing account or create a new one to enrol directly onto the course and make payment. Payment must be made within 24 hours to complete your enrolment.

Struggling to enrol online? Call UCM’s MIS Department on 648200, option 6.

  1. OR if you would prefer to enrol in person. Pop in to our Homefield Road campus to complete an enrolment form and make payment at Reception

You can download the part-time enrolment form here.

Call 648200, press 1 for Reception to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries, or to register your interest for any course email adultlearning@ucm.ac.im

We would also remind you that if you have got any health issues that may affect your attendance on any of our courses, please contact the Adult Education Secretary on 648204 or by e-mail at adultlearning@ucm.ac.im. It is much easier to be able to help if we know your needs well in advance of the start of your course.

about this course:

This course is only suitable for those who have previously attended the intermediate ceramics course. 

If you have a good knowledge of pottery and ceramics or have attended the intermediate course you will be able to further develop and refine techniques already learned, introducing new skills in this wide ranging and lifelong learning process.
ADVANCED LEVEL
Students will be able to build on the knowledge and techniques covered on the intermediate level course and learn new processes to enhance their experience.
They may have been influenced by external sources including books, art exhibitions and television programmes to explore new avenues of making and decorating ceramics and pottery
Surface decoration techniques using underglaze colours on glaze colours
Surface decoration using coloured slips
Printing using a variety of media and printing techniques
Production of lino plates, stencils, textile stencils. free form and natural stencils.
Production of surface decoration in soft clay using textiles with or without colourants.
Using natural plant materials including seeds, leaves, foliage, stone, shells and potato prints
Advanced slab building techniques using formers and the production of formers for individual work.
Advanced glazing techniques using multi layering of glazes and colouring adjustments using metal oxides
Kiln firing schedules
Monitoring and assessment of firings using electronic controllers and Orton cones
Maintenance of kilns
Tutor: Mr Bill Kelly

Times: 7pm - 9pm

Duration: 12 weeks (2 hours per week)
Fee:  £295  Concession: £147.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 16/09/2025 (Course Code: Q3565)

 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

About the Course
Crash Course In Interior Design: An inspirational 10 weeks mixing both theory and practical tasks.
Are you looking to re-design your home, interested in a new hobby, or simply want a bit of time to be creative....
I have hand picked all of my favorite parts from my education and 25 years of international experience in interior design, and put them together to make this exciting course! Color theory, mood boards, pattern and texture concepts, planning and layout are just some of what you'll learn, in the colourful and inspiring course
Introduction to Interior design 8 week course (design living spaces)
About the Course
Our eagerly awaited 8 week intensive Interior Design Course is up and running now, bursting with inspiration and interactive experiences.
The course is aimed at those with an interest or passion for Interior design who want to learn more in a practical environment.
Whether you're about to embark on a project of your own, want to get to grips with what your style really is or perhaps you just want to gain more confidence with your Interior design decision making, you can be sure that by the end of the 8 weeks you'll be equipped with the knowledge and tools to confidently create your own stylish interior space and you will have completed a mood board , sample board, and furniture layout plan, to take and use at home.
You will gain insight into interior design in an inspiring environment and meet like-minded people.
It combines both theory and practical activities, to inspire and help you find your inner style!
This is a full on, jam packed course, covering:
1) An introduction to as many as 10 unique interior design styles
2) How to mix interior styles
3) How to find “your”unique style
4) Understanding the colour wheel and how to select a colour palette
5) How to produce a Mood board
6) How to create displays and vignettes within your interiors ( professional step by step plan and tips to design living rooms and dining rooms)
7) How to layer your home with lighting, textiles and colour
8)How to create flow in your home
By the end of the course, participants will have:
- Gained the confidence to design interior spaces;
- Learned to do room plans and sections;
- Confidently use colour in interiors; - Improved drawing skills;
- Been introduced to a range of materials and finishes;
- To use lighting to create different atmospheres in interiors.
Links and reviews:
* I worked with Lecturer Billee Saade, at UCM, last year and the year before and conducted several talks with students. Attached and Below is post by UCM on LinkedIn quoting the following:
“Earlier this year, Monya Boyle from Conran Archer interior design gave an inspiring talk about being an interior designer to two eager learners who are working to graduate from UCM onto degree courses in the UK.
Monya showed projects from both the isle of Man and her portfolio from around the world. The work included palaces for sheikhs, restaurants, 5 star hotels and local projects here on the island. Monya designed the interiors of Cycle 360, The Fynoderee Distillery Gin Bar and also the Victory Cafe.
Exciting times ahead for our two Level 3 Art & Design students!”
Times: 6pm - 9pm
Duration: 8 weeks 
Fee: £245  Concession: £122.50

Tutor: Monya Boyle

Course dates:

Start Date: 01/10/2025 (Course Code: Q4312)

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

Learn further figures and improve technique for Ballroom and Latin dances. 
Tutor: Ronald Frank Sibthorpe
Duration: 10 weeks (1 hour per week)
Time: 8pm to 9pm
Fee: £85  Concession:  £42.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 30/09/2025 (Course Code: Q3463)
click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

 

During this workshop you will learn how to ferment food, the benefits of fermented food for your wellbeing, link between gut and brain and role of probiotics in our life. You will understand the difference between pickled and fermented fruits and vegetables and create a jar of vegetables ready for magic process of fermentation at home.

This workshop is about beauty from within. We are what we eat and our food effects not only our wellbeing but our skin as well.

During this class you will learn:

  • Why fermented food is crucial for our wellbeing
  • What is a microbiome and how fermented food affects it
  • What is the difference between fermented and pickled food
  • How to make your own fermented food
  • Which vegetables and fruits you can ferment

 

Tutor: Tanya Davis

Time: 6.45pm to 8.45pm

Duration: 1 session of 2 hours
Fee: £30  Concession: £15

Course dates

Start Date: 22/10/25 (Course Code: Q4778)
click here to enrol

 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

Line and wash- Ink and Wash in an expressive and versatile painting medium. By Combining the two mediums, you can take advantage of the strengths of each. Details are developed in Line. Colour and tone are created with a watercolour wash. The work can be detailed or loose, depending on your tastes. If you wish to paint on loose watercolours, Line and wash is an excellent jumping-off point, allowing you the freedom with the paint because of the underlying Line. In the right hands, it is capable of compelling images.

Suggested requirements - black waterproof ink, brushes - sable/sable hair mixture / or nylon. round. Cerulean blue / Ultramarine blue / cobalt blue / Cadmium Red / Alizarin Crimson / Burnt Sienna / Cadmium Yellow / Lemon Yellow / Raw Umber / Burnt Umber Paynes Gray / Raw Sienna / Cabalt turquoise. Implements - mixing dishes, two jars for water, a small sponge, masking fluid, pencils 2B and 4B, some fine tipped dip pens, putty rubber, piece of hard boards large enough to stretch an A3 sheet, kitchen roll, blotting paper, craft knife or pen knife, arches or other cotton paper 140lb pads. 

 

Tutor: Mr P Parker.

Times: 1pm -  4pm
Duration: 8 weeks (3 hours per week)
Fee: £205  Concession: £102.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 10/10/25  (Course Code: Q4254)

click here to enrol

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

We will work with a range of making techniques as you learn to shape, join and build with clay.
You will be introduced to surface decorating skills including sgraffito, carving, slip transfers and impressed prints.
We will use stoneware, earthenware and raku clay and learn the properties of each. We will decorate with oxides, coloured slips, glazes, underglazes. 
This is a basic introductory course.

Tutor: Mrs F Sanders

Duration: 8 weeks (2 hours per week)
Time:  1pm to 3pm 
Fee: £235  Concession:  £117.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 01/10/2025 (Course Code: Q3562)

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

Watercolour techniques for landscape painting. beginners improvers.
We shall look at the design and painting of a water, landscape. Hopefully by the end of the day you will have a-finished painting to take away. It would help immensely to have cotton watercolour paper. Just bring your normal painting equipment. 

 

Suggested requirements - brushes - sable/sable hair mixture / or nylon. round. Cerulean blue / Ultramarine blue / cobalt blue / Cadmium Red / Alizarin Crimson / Burnt Sienna / Cadmium Yellow / Lemon Yellow / Raw Umber / Burnt Umber Paynes Gray / Raw Sienna / Cabalt turquoise. Implements - mixing dishes, two jars for water, a small sponge, masking fluid, pencils 2B and 4B, some fine tipped dip pens, putty rubber, piece of hard boards large enough to stretch an A3 sheet, kitchen roll, blotting paper, craft knife or pen knife, arches or other cotton paper 140lb pads.

Tutor: Mr P Parker
Times: 6.30pm -  9pm
Duration: 8 weeks (2.5 hours per week)
Fee: £170  Concession: £85

Course dates:

Start Date: 07/10/25 (Course Code: Q4253)
click here to enrol 

 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

Grow your confidence in digital photography with this short course designed to expand your knowledge in digital photography.
Aimed towards enthusiasts who own a digital camera and looking to refine their technique, this course offers a perfect blend of theory and practical exercises. You'll learn the basics of camera settings, lighting, composition, and editing, all while gaining confidence through hands-on practice and personalised feedback based on your experience level. By the end of the course, you'll be able to understand how stunning images are created and know how to master the camera. The course will also feature an introduction to studio photography and potentially a dark room experience.
Tutor: Lorna Mattocks

Times:  6pm - 8pm

Duration: 6 weeks (2 hours per week)
Fee: £105  Concession:  £52.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 01/10/25 (Course Code: Q4784)
click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

Basic introduction to working with precious metals including techniques of soldering, cutting and shaping silver. Learn to create a textured pendant or earrings. No previous experience required. All materials provided.
Tutor: Miss S Wernham
Times: 1pm to 4pm 
Duration: 6 weeks (3 hours)
Fee: £165  Concession: £82.50 

Course dates:

Start Date: 07/10/2025 (Course Code: Q4305)

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

​about this course:

Each week from Week 2 will also include a quick refresh on work so far. The subject material each week may need to be varied to allow for speed at which students progress - either by omitting some details or adding extra details. Also, if some students are clearly well ahead of the class in general, some additional figures or points of technique will, if possible, be given to those students)
Beginners:
Week 1 - Basic Cha Cha Cha, Basic Quickstep, Identifying alignments in the ballroom, Simple method of negotiating a corner in Quickstep
Week 2 - Cha Cha Cha New Yorker Step, Basic Foxtrot (Feather steps), Basic Rumba
Week 3 - Cha Cha Cha Fallaway Step, New Yorker Step in Rumba, Foxtrot Change of Direction for corners
Week 4 - Basic Jive Step, Basic Waltz (Change Steps), Jive turning Basic
Week 5 - Fallaway in Rumba, Waltz Natural Turn, Waltz Reverse Turn
Week 6 - Jive Arch Turn, Jive Loop Turn, Jive Link Step
Week 7 - Diagonal Waltzing using Alternate Natural and Reverse Turns
Week 8 - Using Spot Turn as transitions between figures in Cha Cha Cha and Rumba
Week 9 - Basic figures in Merengue
Week 10 - Advanced figures in Merengue

Learn how to do Ballroom and Latin dance steps (eg Waltz, Cha Cha Cha, Quickstep, Rumba, Jive). 

Tutor: Ronald Frank Sibthorpe
Duration: 10 weeks (1 hour per week)
Times: 7pm to 8pm
Fee: £85  Concession: £42.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 30/09/2025 (Course Code: Q3462)
click here to enrol
Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

Learn how to decorate cakes suitable for any celebration or occasion. With tips and tricks from an experienced tutor.
Tutor: Emma Kennish
Times: 6pm to 8pm 
Duration: 6 weeks (2 hours)
Fee: £130  Concession:  £65

Course dates:

Start Date: 30/09/2025 (Course Code: Q4865)

 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

Tai Chi & Qigong Workshop: Cultivating Balance, Energy & Relaxation
Join us for a Tai Chi & Qigong workshop designed to improve your balance, flexibility, and overall well-being through mindful movement and breathwork. Whether you are new to Tai Chi and Qigong or have some experience, this session will provide valuable insights into these ancient Chinese practices that promote relaxation, strength, and inner harmony.
In this morning session, we will focus on:
The fundamentals of Qigong, including gentle exercises to enhance energy flow (Qi) and relaxation.
Key Tai Chi movements for improving posture, balance, and coordination.
Breathing techniques and meditation to calm the mind and reduce stress.
Practical applications for everyday life to support better posture and overall wellness.
This introductory session is ideal for beginners or those looking for a refresher on the essential principles of Tai Chi and Qigong.
Below are clips of Raymond demonstrating Tai Chi - 

 

 

 

Times: 9am to 12noon
Tutor: Mr R Wun
Duration: 1 week (3 hours)
Fee: £30   Concession:  £15

Course dates:

Start Date: 29/11/2025 (Course Code: Q4154 )
click here to enrol 

 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

Christmas needle felt - Join us for a festive one day needle felting workshop, where you will create charming tree decorations and well as making your very own festive Gonk! Whether your a beginner or an experienced crafter Annie will guide you through the whole process, in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. For this hands on workshop Annie will guide you through making a charming selection of tree decorations. All materials are provided, so you can simply come along, get creative, and take home your beautiful handmade items, adding a personal touch to your Christmas home. 
Times: 9.30am to 3.30pm 
Tutor: Mrs A Eastham 
Duration: 1 week (5.5 hours)
Fee: £55  Concession: £27.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 29/11/2025 (Course Code: Q3574)
click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

The beginners course aims to teach you the fundamentals of playing the drum kit. You will learn the basic rhythms and grooves of drumming, progressing to different beat permutations and patterns, fills, coordination and technique. You will discover how these beats and rhythms can fit into various different songs and by the end of the course you will be able to play a wide variety of pop and rock songs. Example of songs you may learn on the course - Every Breath you take by the Police, Highway to Hell by AC/DC, Yellow by Coldplay and many many more. Drum kits will be supplied but you will be required to use your own sticks.

 

Tutor: Mr M Brabbs

Start Time: 9am - 4pm

Duration: 1 week (6 hours)
Fee: £75   Concession: £37.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 29/11/2025 (Course Code: Q4298)
click here to enrol 
Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This 4 week course is perfect for those looking to get an insight into the game of golf. Sessions are 90min in length and involve both group and individual coaching with an experienced PGA Professional. The environment is very relaxed and all equipment will be provided.

Golf for beginners is a great introduction to the game in a relaxed and encouraging environment. A fully qualified PGA Professional, Andy will guide you through the basics and get you ‘golf ready!’ 

This course takes place at Ballacottier Primary School.

Tutor: Mr A Patterson.

Times:  7pm to 8.30pm 

Duration: 4 weeks (1.5 hours per week)
Fee: £60   Concession:  £30

Course dates:

Start Date: 03/11/2025 (Course Code: Q4337)

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

If you’ve learned any Spanish before, you probably focused on learning the “stuff” of the language – grammar, vocab, maybe pronunciation.
Which makes sense. That’s obviously the first step.
But what good is all of that info if you can’t use it in real conversations with Spanish speakers?
If every time you go to form a new sentence, you are racking your brain for the right sentence structure, the right conjugation, that word you can never remember, then you have a problem.
Your goal is to have natural conversations with real people… Right?
Then you not only need to learn the grammar and vocab, but become confident using it.
And the only way to become confident having conversations in Spanish is to have lots of conversations in Spanish. . The more you speak and have fun, the easier it is for you to understand- I teach conversational Spanish in my Spanish for beginners course, with no complicated rules or grammar. When you Speak to Learn Spanish, it becomes real and functional!
Tutor: Mr R Fargher

Times: 6.30pm - 8.30pm 

Duration: 9 weeks (2 hours per week)

Fee: £155  Concession:  £77.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 14/10/2025 (Course Code: Q3959)
click here to enrol 

 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

Have you always wanted to make your own bread, or you've tried but it hasn't worked out then this is the workshop for you. This workshop will teach the skills and knowledge you need to create the perfect loaf of bread. You will learn to make a white loaf, sweet buns and a quick bread during the day. 
Times: 10am to 4pm
Tutor: Josephine Warrington
Duration: 1 week (5.5 hours)
Fee: £55  Concession: £27.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 29/11/2025 (Course Code: Q4318)
click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

An introductory and innovative course for beginners, during which students will learn basic Italian words and phrases while building an extensive vocabulary. The course aims to make students more confident and able to have conversation in Italian, having a lot of fun at the same time.  Tutor: Valentina Elvezia

Times: 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Duration: 7 weeks (2 hours per week)
Fee: £120  Concession: £60

Course dates:

Start Date: 30/09/2025 (Course Code: Q4832)

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

A Christmas Floral Arrangement.
Participants will be guided to make their own Christmas floral design following a demonstration by the tutor. Floral mechanics, materials, flowers and foliage will be provided but participants may be asked to bring along their own accessories to personalise their design. Details will be sent to participants prior to the course. 

Tutor: Mrs S Magee

Times: 10am - 12.30pm
Duration: 1 session of 2.5 hours
Fee: £30  Concession:  £15

Course dates

Start Date: 29/11/25 (Course Code: Q4615)

click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

For centuries much of the Island’s population has been rural – living in the various villages or scattered across the island in often isolated farms and cottages. For many people it was a subsistence life, without enough land to support a family, so they were often labouring on local farms, going to the fishing or maybe working in the mines as well. Discover more about how people earned a living, put food on the table and a roof over their head (and what was under that roof).
Discover how people celebrated, commemorated (and protected themselves) through the year and throughout their lives at both home and at work (whether on land or sea). When life could be so precarious and one bad harvest (either of crops or at the fishing) could be disastrous, people would do whatever it took to keep their good luck. So find out about the different ways people could try to ensure good luck, prevent bad luck, but also importantly have fun (a lot of folklore is about having fun... particularly for young people!). 
Tutor: Tony Cain
Times: 9am to 4pm 
Duration: 1 week (6 hours)
Fee: £60   Concession:  £30

Course dates:

Start Date: 29/11/2025 (Course Code: Q4830)

click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

The course is targeted at providing the casual Manx stargazer, who wants to know more about the basics of astronomy, the opportunity to learn how to identify the planets, constellations, and other objects in the sky. The course also looks in detail at the human exploration of the cosmos using manned and automatic spacecraft.
The Manx night skies are amongst the darkest and best in Europe. With little light pollution we can observe many fascinating objects including the Milky Way, which unlike urban areas on the adjacent Isles can be clearly seen on dark moonless Manx nights. This course is aimed at the beginner or the enthusiastic amateur or anyone who has looked up at the night sky with wonder and questions.
The course may include visits to places of astronomical significance on the Island and sessions if the sky is clear, may be held outside to enable students to see the objects visible that night for themselves. Tutor: Mr H Parkin
Times: 7pm - 9pm
Duration: 12 weeks (the 12 weeks are spread over a couple of terms, from Oct to end of Jan) 
Fee: £205  Concession: £102.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 14/10/25 (Course Code: Q3417)
click here to enrol

 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

If you have a basic knowledge or have attended the beginners course you will be able to expand your ceramics knowledge, developing and refining techniques and learning new processes.
POTTERY & CERAMICS
Ceramics is an exceptionally wide ranging craft/art to study and should be considered as a life long learning process.
Both courses offer the students an opportunity to learn new techniques and processes to further develop their own style in ceramics and pottery whilst learning and adhering to the health and safety aspects of all materials and equipment used.
After assimilating the basic skills on the beginners course the Intermediate and Advanced Ceramic Courses offer the opportunity to develop and refine those skills and introduce many new processes and techniques to the students.
INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
Basic kiln maintenance
Kiln firing programmes, adjustments and effects
Use of Orion Coves to refine firings.
Economics of kiln packing and firing.
Record keeping of firings
Basic glaze composition
Multi layered glaze applications
Use of metal oxides in glazes
Record keeping of glaze effects
Use of glass in conjunction with glazes, bottles,Tiffany glass, marbles, glass beads etc.
Mould making in plaster, hump, slump slip moulds.
Construction and use of drop moulds
Construction and use of formers and supports
Utilisation of easy made formers and supports
Making and using sprig moulds.
Surface decoration techniques using lino cuts, dry point aluminium plates, textiles, wallpapers, rubber printing plates and stencils.
Glaze application using wax resist, latex resist, masking tape etc.
Producing clay slips with varied uses.
Slip casting slip with use of deflocculants
Control of thixotrophy
Joining slips
Coloured painting slip
Majolica decoration
Use of extruders to produce coils, tubes, beads etc

 

Tutor: Mr Bill Kelly

Times: 1.30pm - 3.30pm

Duration: 12 weeks (2 hours per week)
Fee:  £295  Concession: £147.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 16/09/2025 (Course Code: Q4451)

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

Learn to make a variety of bakes both sweet and savoury to impress friends and family during the festive season. From chocolates and confectionaries to give as gifts to desserts that will dazzle at the table, this courses offers an array of bakes and recipes that anyone can learn. You will need to provide your own ingredients.
Times: 6pm to 9pm
Tutor: Josephine Warrington
Duration: 5 weeks (3 hours)
Fee: £140  Concession:  £70

Course dates:

Start Date: 12/11/2025 (Course Code: Q4316)

click here to enrol

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

This course is only suitable for those who have previously attended the intermediate ceramics course. 

If you have a good knowledge of pottery and ceramics or have attended the intermediate course you will be able to further develop and refine techniques already learned, introducing new skills in this wide ranging and lifelong learning process.
ADVANCED LEVEL
Students will be able to build on the knowledge and techniques covered on the intermediate level course and learn new processes to enhance their experience.
They may have been influenced by external sources including books, art exhibitions and television programmes to explore new avenues of making and decorating ceramics and pottery
Surface decoration techniques using underglaze colours on glaze colours
Surface decoration using coloured slips
Printing using a variety of media and printing techniques
Production of lino plates, stencils, textile stencils. free form and natural stencils.
Production of surface decoration in soft clay using textiles with or without colourants.
Using natural plant materials including seeds, leaves, foliage, stone, shells and potato prints
Advanced slab building techniques using formers and the production of formers for individual work.
Advanced glazing techniques using multi layering of glazes and colouring adjustments using metal oxides
Kiln firing schedules
Monitoring and assessment of firings using electronic controllers and Orton cones
Maintenance of kilns
Tutor: Mr Bill Kelly

Times: 7pm - 9pm

Duration: 12 weeks (2 hours per week)
Fee:  £295  Concession: £147.50

Course dates:

COURSE NOW FULL
Start Date: 06/01/2026 (Course Code: Q4452)
click here to enrol 

 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

If you have a basic knowledge or have attended the beginners course you will be able to expand your ceramics knowledge, developing and refining techniques and learning new processes.
POTTERY & CERAMICS
Ceramics is an exceptionally wide ranging craft/art to study and should be considered as a life long learning process.
Both courses offer the students an opportunity to learn new techniques and processes to further develop their own style in ceramics and pottery whilst learning and adhering to the health and safety aspects of all materials and equipment used.
After assimilating the basic skills on the beginners course the Intermediate and Advanced Ceramic Courses offer the opportunity to develop and refine those skills and introduce many new processes and techniques to the students.
INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
Basic kiln maintenance
Kiln firing programmes, adjustments and effects
Use of Orion Coves to refine firings.
Economics of kiln packing and firing.
Record keeping of firings
Basic glaze composition
Multi layered glaze applications
Use of metal oxides in glazes
Record keeping of glaze effects
Use of glass in conjunction with glazes, bottles,Tiffany glass, marbles, glass beads etc.
Mould making in plaster, hump, slump slip moulds.
Construction and use of drop moulds
Construction and use of formers and supports
Utilisation of easy made formers and supports
Making and using sprig moulds.
Surface decoration techniques using lino cuts, dry point aluminium plates, textiles, wallpapers, rubber printing plates and stencils.
Glaze application using wax resist, latex resist, masking tape etc.
Producing clay slips with varied uses.
Slip casting slip with use of deflocculants
Control of thixotrophy
Joining slips
Coloured painting slip
Majolica decoration
Use of extruders to produce coils, tubes, beads etc

 

Tutor: Mr Bill Kelly

Times: 1.30pm - 3.30pm

Duration: 12 weeks (2 hours per week)
Fee:  £295  Concession: £147.50

Course dates:

COURSE NOW FULL
Start Date: 06/01/2026 (Course Code: Q4453)
click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

The Beginner’s / Improvers Spanish course is made up of 10-weeks.
This ten week course is suitable for absolute beginners or students who would like to build their confidence.  We follow the structure of the BBC Talk Spanish Book 1. By the end of the 10 weeks, you will have learned how to introduce yourself, say a little about who you are, what you do and, just as important, to start understanding what Spanish people say in reply. You should be able to find your way around Spanish towns, use public transport, and enjoy Spanish hospitality with and without help from google.

We will revisit the basics to building specific grammar and vocabulary. 

Tutor: Mrs P Stewart

Times: 7pm to 9pm at Castle Rushen High School
Duration: 10 weeks (2 hours per week)
Fee: £170  Concession: £85

Course dates:

COURSE CANCELLED
Start Date: 20/01/2026 (Course Code: Q3875)
click here to enrol 

 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

This is a follow-on course from part 1 in the Autumn Term.

The course is open to students who have already taken Italian for Beginners 1, or to anyone who has some basic knowledge of Italian.

Our focus will be on improving communication skills for different situations while in Italy, whether speaking with locals, traveling, or handling everyday interactions. We’ll also make sure to have some fun along the way!

What we are doing

  • Conversational practice: interactive sessions to build confidence in speaking.
  • Vocabulary support: PowerPoint slides with key words and phrases shared after each lesson.
  • Cultural insights: explore Italian traditions, customs, and everyday life with written resources provided.
  • Practical learning: lessons blend language with real-world examples to make Italian come alive
  • Homework practice: students who want to improve their reading and writing receive short assignments.
  • Feedback provided: homework is marked with guidance to help learners progress.
  • Elementary Italian texts: accessible materials are shared to build comprehension and vocabulary.
  • Balanced approach: speaking, listening, reading, and writing all reinforced in a supportive environment.

Who can join

Learners who have completed the Autumn term or anyone with a basic foundation in Italian grammar and vocabulary. No advanced knowledge required:  just enthusiasm to learn and participate.

First Lesson in February

  • Quick revision: a recap of the vocabulary, grammar, and cultural topics covered in the Autumn term.
  • Inclusive approach: helps new students understand the foundation already built, while reinforcing knowledge for returning learners.
  • Smooth transition: sets everyone up to move forward together with confidence.

 

 

 Tutor: Valentina Elvezia

Times: 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Duration: 7 weeks (2 hours per week)
Fee: £120  Concession: £60

Course dates:

COURSE CANCELLED
Start Date: 04/02/2026 (Course Code: Q4835)

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.

about this course:

Spanish Level 1 continuation - students from the Autumn Term can enrol on this course. You must have completed the part 1 in the Autumn Term. 
Tutor: Mr R Fargher

Times: 6.30pm - 8.30pm 

Duration: 9 weeks (2 hours per week)

Fee: £155  Concession:  £77.50

Course dates:

COURSE CANCELLED
Start Date: 27/01/2026 (Course Code: Q4637)
click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

No previous experience with clay required.  Ideal for brand new students.
We will work with a range of making techniques as you learn to shape, join and build with clay.
You will be introduced to surface decorating skills including sgraffito, carving, slip transfers and impressed prints.
We will use stoneware, earthenware and raku clay and learn the properties of each. We will decorate with oxides, coloured slips, glazes, underglazes.
Tutor: Mrs F Sanders

Times: 1pm - 3pm

Duration: 8 weeks (2 hours per week)
Fee:  £235  Concession: £117.50

Course dates:

COURSE FULL
Start Date: 30/01/2026 (Course Code: Q4454)
click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

Learn how to dance the common dances for social events, cruises, balls. The course will cover Waltz, ChaChaCha, Quickstep, Rumba, Foxtrot and Jive. If time permits, we can also look at Salsa and Merengue. Couples can learn together, but if you do not have a partner you can still join in and learn. technique for Ballroom and Latin dances. 
Tutor: Ronald Frank Sibthorpe
Duration: 10 weeks (1 hour per week)
Fee: £85   Concession:  £42.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 03/02/2026 (Course Code: Q4635)

 click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

Learn further figures and improve technique for Ballroom and Latin dances. 
Tutor: Ronald Frank Sibthorpe
Duration: 10 weeks (1 hour per week)
Fee: £85   Concession: £42.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 03/02/2026 (Course Code: Q4636)

click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

Students from Part 1 Autumn Term can continue on to this course.
Continuing from pottery for beginners part 1 we will build on our knowledge and introduce new techniques we haven’t tried yet. These will include slip casting, coil building larger forms and throwing at the wheel. 
Tutor: Mrs F Sanders
Times: 1pm to 3pm 
Duration: 8 weeks (2 hours)
Fee: £235   Concession:  £117.50

Course dates:

COURSE FULL
Start Date: 04/02/2026 (Course Code: Q4849)
click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

If you’ve learned any Spanish before, you probably focused on learning the “stuff” of the language – grammar, vocab, maybe pronunciation.
Which makes sense. That’s obviously the first step.
But what good is all of that info if you can’t use it in real conversations with Spanish speakers?
If every time you go to form a new sentence, you are racking your brain for the right sentence structure, the right conjugation, that word you can never remember, then you have a problem.
Your goal is to have natural conversations with real people… Right?
Then you not only need to learn the grammar and vocab, but become confident using it.
And the only way to become confident having conversations in Spanish is to have lots of conversations in Spanish. . The more you speak and have fun, the easier it is for you to understand- I teach conversational Spanish in my Spanish for beginners course, with no complicated rules or grammar. When you Speak to Learn Spanish, it becomes real and functional!
Spanish Level 1 - for absolute beginners, or if your knowledge is limited/rusty and you wish to build your confidence for holidays, work or fun.
New students welcome. 
Tutor: Mr R Fargher

Times: 6.30pm - 8.30pm 

Duration: 8 weeks (2 hours per week)

Fee: £135  Concession:  £67.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 04/02/2026 (Course Code: Q4142)
click here to enrol 

 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

Crochet for beginners, improvers, and for those that want to refresh their skills. 

Please note: there are no refunds on 1 day workshops. 

Tutor: TBC 

Start Time: 9am - 4pm

Duration: 1 day (6 hours)
Fee: £75   Concession: £37.50

Course dates:

COURSE FULL
Start Date: 21/03/2026 (Course Code: Q4610)
click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

Tai Chi & Qigong Workshop: Cultivating Balance, Energy & Relaxation
Join us for a Tai Chi & Qigong workshop designed to improve your balance, flexibility, and overall well-being through mindful movement and breathwork. Whether you are new to Tai Chi and Qigong or have some experience, this session will provide valuable insights into these ancient Chinese practices that promote relaxation, strength, and inner harmony.
In this morning session, we will focus on:
The fundamentals of Qigong, including gentle exercises to enhance energy flow (Qi) and relaxation.
Key Tai Chi movements for improving posture, balance, and coordination.
Breathing techniques and meditation to calm the mind and reduce stress.
Practical applications for everyday life to support better posture and overall wellness.
This introductory session is ideal for beginners or those looking for a refresher on the essential principles of Tai Chi and Qigong.
Please note: there are no refunds on 1 day workshops.
Below are clips of Raymond demonstrating Tai Chi - 
                 


Times: 9am to 12noon
Tutor: Mr R Wun
Duration: 1 day (3 hours)
Fee: £30   Concession: £15

Course dates:

Start Date: 21/03/2026 (Course Code: Q4027)

click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

In this class, we’ll start from the basics, teaching you how to thread a sewing machine and wind the bobbin. You’ll practice sewing straight lines, curves and corners, while also learning about seam allowances, different types of seams and their functions as well as techniques for finishing edges and hemming. Throughout the session, you’ll apply your newly acquired skills to create a small project and you’ll leave with samples of various techniques for future reference.
Equipment will be provided but feel free to bring your own if you have some.
Please note: there are no refunds on 1 day workshops.
Times: 10am to 4pm
Tutor: Amy Callister
Duration: 1 day (5.5 hours)
Fee: £70   Concession:  £35

Course dates:

COURSE FULL
Start Date: 21/03/2026 (Course Code: Q3974)
click here to enrol 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries. 

about this course:

Easter needlefelt - A delightful one day needle felting course where you will create a beautiful Easter themed mobile. Perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike. In this hands on workshop Annie will guide you through making a charming selection of decorations such as bunnies, chicks and colourful eggs, all made from wool! With expert instruction and a welcoming atmosphere you'll leave with a stunning mobile to bring the joys of spring into your home.
Please note: there are no refunds on 1 day workshops.
Times: 9.30am to 3.30pm 
Tutor: Mrs A Eastham 
Duration: 1 day (5.5 hours)
Fee: £55   Concession: £27.50

Course dates:

Start Date: 21/03/2026 (Course Code: Q3973)
click here to enrol

 

Call 648200 to speak to one of our team if you have any further queries.