Taster Session

Thanks to all who showed up  for the taster  session of this course.   10  people and 2 apologies indicates a good demand, indeed in the week since the taster  session I have had 5 further enquiries.

In the taster session, as well as getting to know one another we took part  in a range of exercises exploring the notion of what  community  is and whether  it does in fact  actually  exist.     The debate was fascinating and involved, consensus was easier to find on some matters than on others.      A  significant degree of criticism was present of how the term has been coined by  differing sectors.   Is there really  such a thing as a business community?   A community  in Hulme or Moss Side?   Were peoples experiences of community  different in previous eras and before social changes in their community?    Can it be that  our environments are being designed to discourage the development of community  with the designing out of places to congregate?

We were joined during the session by Adam from Sostenga who told us about the possibilities of progression from the course, by  Nick from the city  council who reported on their involvement in the project  to train volunteers (and was drilled for information by  some students!)  and by  Carol from MMU who invited all the students to spend the second week of the course (2nd May) using the facilities at the university and registering with MMU to gain access to the library  and a range of student card older benefits.   So on 2nd May  we will spend our morning at  MMU.

I have had a few calls since the course and am posting the queries in this blog for all to see

• How much  does the course cost for those not on means tested benefits?   At  present we are still trying to  find ways of funding for those people who are not on means tested benefits.   If we are unsuccessful then the cost  will be £71.30 for the full course (23 hours)
• Is there a creche? There isn't a creche provided no.   However students aged 20  or over are able to apply  to our discretionary learner support  fund for funding to cover the cost  of ofsted registered childcare.
• Can I register  on this course please?   If you are a volunteer  involved in community  development work  then I would be delighted for you to book a place.  Please contact  MWicked@wea.org.uk with your name, phone number, e mail address and post  code.