Bringing Learning Opportunities Closer to Communities

Awen and Bridgend College are working together to offer a programme of Adult Community Learning courses at Maesteg Town Hall and Blaengarw Workmen’s Hall, making learning more accessible to people living in the Llynfi and Garw valleys.

By delivering courses within familiar community venues which are both part of Awen’s partnership with Bridgend County Borough Council, the collaboration is helping people develop practical skills, explore new interests and build their confidence without needing to travel to a college campus.

Courses at Maesteg Town Hall this term include sign language, exploratory drawing, charcoals and ink mixed media, psychology, criminal psychology, early history of Wales, eco-weaving, jewellery making, nailcare and beauty therapy.

Ten-week courses in eco-weaving, which involves turning old, unwanted fabrics into beautiful handmade crafts, and jewellery making are also being offered for the first time this term at Blaengarw Workmen’s Hall.

The collaboration with Bridgend College ensures that Awen’s venues are more than just places for performances and events, but provide accessible local spaces for learning, wellbeing, creativity and social connection.

Richard Hughes, Chief Executive of Awen Cultural Trust, said:

“We have developed an excellent working relationship with Bridgend College through their base at Maesteg Town Hall and the learning opportunities they provide our trainees at B-Leaf and Wood-B, so it is great news to be able to extend this offer into Blaengarw Workmen’s Hall this term.

“Delivering courses in our venues right in the heart of Bridgend’s local communities helps remove some of the practical barriers that can prevent people from enrolling. Whether they want to improve their skills, meet new people or simply try something different, we hope this will provide a positive first step.”

Helen Davies, Head of Part Time Delivery and Commercial Activity at Bridgend College, said:

“Working with Awen Cultural Trust allows us to bring a range of fully funded Adult Community Learning opportunities directly into local communities, giving people the chance to learn new skills, explore their interests and connect with others in welcoming, familiar spaces.

“We’re delighted to be extending our offer at Blaengarw Workmen’s Hall this term, alongside our established provision at Maesteg Town Hall and Pencoed Library. We look forward to welcoming more local learners to our courses.”

To find out more about Bridgend College’s Adult Community Learning courses available at Maesteg Town Hall, Blaengarw Workmen’s Hall and other locations, visit https://www.bridgend.ac.uk/acl