New course guide for adult learners launched in Bristol

Bristol City Council has launched a new course guide to encourage adults of any age or ability to learn something new. With over 550 courses on offer at Stoke Lodge, Bristol is building on its status as a Learning City by providing a broad range of courses which cover many different interests, hobbies and skills.

Using the new guide, available online or as a printed copy, participants can explore the wide range of courses on offer, from art to public speaking and cookery to languages. There’s something for everyone and the benefits of taking part can be far-reaching. Research has shown there is an association between increased levels of learning and reductions in self-reported depression and GP visits, along with other improvements in health and life satisfaction.*

Councillor Anna Keen, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said:

“In my role I get to see the impact of a whole range of learning activities across the city. Many people choose a course to develop particular skills and knowledge, but we also know that being part of group learning activities can play a significant role in our mental health and wellbeing. Helping us to meet people, socialise and share the fun of learning together whilst taking on courses which will challenge and inspire. As part of the wider Bristol Learning City initiative to encourage and promote learning, I am really proud of the role Bristol City Council is playing in providing and developing lifelong learning opportunities for residents.”

This year Stoke Lodge is also available for private hire for birthday parties and baby showers through to team building days, with a range of activities available to make for memorable events.

Adult learning courses include short workshops to longer programmes of study or intensive courses and costs start from £13.

For more information please visit www.bristolcourses.com. Participants can enrol online, by phone or by dropping into Stoke Lodge and the Autumn term starts on Monday 10 September.

*Research from national government report on the future of skills and lifelong learning 2017