Back to About the WEA

WEA Learning Support Entitlement May 2000

Learning with the WEA

The WEA aims to create a friendly and supportive environment for all its learners. Learners with the WEA have many different learning needs. We aim to offer the following, although certain aspects may not be applicable to you:

1. Before you start your course, or at the first session:

• information about the course, about the WEA, and other courses we can offer you
• help to decide if it is the right course for you, if you will need any educational or practical support from the WEA or another course in order to complete the course
• referral to other providers of learning opportunities, or specialists, if appropriate, or to impartial guidance services if required

2. While you are on the course:

• a physical environment which encourages and supports your learning
• detailed information about the course, what is expected of you, and the support you can expect
• help with planning your learning
• constructive comments from your tutor, and an opportunity to discuss your learning

3. Before you finish your course, or if you do not complete it:

• information about what you have achieved
• information about what you might do next, with the WEA or in other contexts
• help to decide what next steps would be right for you
• referral to other providers of learning opportunities, specialists, or to impartial guidance services if required.

WEA Eastern District

Who to ask

If you have a pre-course enquiry and do not know who to contact, please telephone the District Office (01223 350978), open from 9-5 on weekdays, or messages can be left on an answerphone at other times. Administrative staff can help with information about WEA courses, and may refer you to Programme Managers, Course Tutors or Branch Secretaries depending on the nature of the enquiry. Lesley Haughton, District Guidance Specialist, works one day a week (flexible) and will be able to help you with broader or more complex enquiries. The WEA has strong links with a network of other providers of learning opportunities and of information, advice and guidance, and will be able to refer you to them if required.

If you require information, advice or guidance while you are on a WEA course, please talk to the Course Tutor about furthering your interest in the subject of the course or to look at a “What Next?” information pack, or to Lesley Haughton at the District Office if the enquiry is more general. There is also a national freephone helpline, “learndirect” (0800 100 900), which you may find useful. The WEA makes no charge for information, advice and guidance. The cost of courses is outlined in our brochures.

Other Documents

Please request the following from the District Office:

“Welcome to the WEA” leaflet

WEA Constitution

WEA Mission Statement

WEA Charter (including Complaints Procedure)

WEA Disability Statement

This Entitlement Statement can be made available in different formats and languages on request. This will be arranged in response to individual needs, and there may be a short delay in providing it.

Expressing your views

Learners with the WEA can express their views about the support, information, advice and guidance they have received as part of their learning experience by:

• completing the “Description of Learning and Course Evaluation” form
• responding to post-course surveys
• contacting Lesley Haughton via the District Office.

May 2000