Idea Store Learning Course Information 2023/24

Welcome

Welcome to Idea Store Learning, the London Borough of Tower Hamlets Adult & Community Learning provision.

Whether you’ve studied with us before, or you are a new learner, we’re delighted that you have chosen Idea Store Learning.

Our aim is to enable you to achieve your full potential. Whatever your ambitions, we can work together to help you achieve it.

Our tutors and learning managers are dedicated professionals with years of experience in industry and adult education. We work together to make sure that you get all the support you need to help fulfil your ambitions.

About our courses

You can find out more about the courses we teach by visiting our website www.ideastore.co.uk/learning

If you have questions about enrolment or your course, please visit www.ideastore.co.uk/learning/how-toenrol/frequently-asked-questions so that we can help you.

What you need to know about us

Idea Store Learning get support from Tower Hamlets Council and an annual grant from the Greater London Authority (GLA). The GLA regulate us and work with Ofsted to inspect us. We offer a wide variety of courses and classes that are good value for money.

Every year we ask for feedback from our learners through surveys and the results show our learner satisfaction is very high.

All courses are subject to change. Idea Store Learning reserves the right to close or amend courses including fee amendments.

Where there is low enrolment, courses advertised will be closed before the start date. It is recommended that you enrol at least one week before the start date of your chosen course.

Our vision: “To empower and inspire our community through inclusive, high quality learning opportunities”

Our Mission: “To provide learning which is creative, ambitious and affordable, to help our learners reach their potential”

To read more about Idea Store Learning Values & Priorities please visit our website.

For full details on enrolment please visit www.ideastore.co.uk/learning

Learner Information

Under 19 year olds

Unfortunately, you cannot enrol on one of our courses if you are under 19 years of age. We are funded by the government to run courses for learners who are aged 19 and over.

Attendance and punctuality

We expect 100% attendance on courses. We know that you may not be able to attend each session so please tell us if you are going to be absent. If you miss four consecutive weeks, you will be removed from the course.

Punctuality is also very important - if you do not come to class on time, you will miss important work. It can also be disruptive to other students in the class. To support, we track these areas to increase your chances of success at the end of your course and obtaining high grades, where appropriate.

Refunds and cancellations

If you can no longer take part in the course you have enrolled on, please tell Idea Store Learning, in writing, at least two weeks before the course starts.

We will only issue a refund if this is done. You can write to us at learnerservices@towerhamlets.gov.uk We will charge an administration fee of £11 for processing your refund.

Where we close a course, you will be given a full refund. If we change the published details of a course, those learners for whom the course is no longer suitable will receive a full refund.

Refunds will not be given in any other circumstances.

Comments and complaints

We aim to operate a complaints procedure that is fair, responsive, and effective. You can expect us to deal promptly and courteously with your complaints.

Please discuss any concerns or complaints with your tutors first. We will try and resolve the issue there and then. Alternatively email ideastore@ towerhamlets.gov.uk

We aim to acknowledge your email and respond within 10 working days. Where it takes longer to resolve an issue, we will keep you informed.

Accessibility

All our main Idea Store sites are accessible for those with reduced mobility. However, at the Shadwell Centre only classes on the ground floor are accessible to people with reduced mobility. Please check when you enrol.

Adult Community Learning

We have a fantastic range of courses for you to join, learn new skills, explore your creativity, get fit or update your existing knowledge, whilst making new friends along the way.

We pride ourselves on delivering the highest quality teaching; we focus on supporting you to make improvements as you develop your skills. You will be taught by a dedicated team of friendly and highly skilled tutors. So, why not browse the course search to discover our range of courses on offer.

The majority of courses are run at the Shadwell Centre and Idea Store Whitechapel, which have fully equipped studios to support your learning.

Visual Arts

Whether you are new to visual arts or have some experience, we have a range of courses for you to enjoy learning.

You could be learning to paint for the first time or you may be renewing your skills. You may be making your own prints, ceramics, or developing your creative writing we have a course for you.

We even have a course to help you use social media to promote what you do. You will be taught to use a range of excellent resources by our friendly and highly skilled team.

A taste of some of the courses on offer:

l Creative Writing

l Figure Drawing

l Art - Mixed Media

l Painting and Drawing

l Printmaking

l Screen Printing on Paper and Fabric

l Screen Printing and Batik on Fabric

l Pottery and Ceramics

For full details on enrolment please visit www.ideastore.co.uk/learning

Photography

The photography courses are designed to increase your confidence, understanding and knowledge of photography, whether you are a beginner or have some experience. We offer a range of courses to suit your needs and you will be taught by experienced tutors in well-equipped studios at the Shadwell Centre.

A taste of some of the courses on offer:

l Introduction to Basic Digital Photography

l Learn Creative Digital Photography

l Fun with Photography in the Studio

l Portrait Photography

l Street Photography

l Master Smartphone Photography

l Cyanotype Printing

Fashion and Textiles

You do not need to own a sewing machine or have any previous experience as we have courses from beginner levels through to advanced levels.

You can learn how to sew, make a garment, knit, cut a pattern for a garment that correctly fits.

A taste of some of the courses on offer:

l Introduction to Sewing using a Sewing Machine

l Basic Clothes Making

l Get Started in Sewing

l Sewing and Garment Pattern Cutting

l Improve your Clothes Making Skills Fashion Workshop

l Hand Knitting

l Crochet

l Textile Crafts

Health and Fitness

Whatever your goals are, whether you are interested in developing strength and flexibility, boost your mood, wellbeing and self-esteem, or simply stay active while meeting new people, we have a course for you.

Improve your fitness through our courses at the Shadwell Centre, Idea Store Whitechapel, and online.

A taste of some of the courses on offer:

l Pilates

l Tai Chi

l Yoga

l Mindfulness

l Massage

l Setting Life Goals

l Learn to Tour Guide in Tower Hamlets

Performing Arts

We offer you the chance to learn to dance, play an instrument, perform, or sing. Enjoy learning in an energetic, creative, and supportive atmosphere. You will be taught by skilled and experienced dance tutors, choreographers and musicians supported by a range of excellent resources.

A taste of some of the courses on offer:

l African Dance

l Ballet

l Ballet Floor Barre

l Belly Dance (Women Only)

l Salsa

l Contemporary Dance

l Jazz Dance

l Flamenco

l Singing

l Hand Drumming and Percussion Skills

l Piano Keyboard Skills

l Drumming

Learner

Experience:

Morgan - Ballet student

I attend ballet at the Whitechapel Idea Store. The course has positively impacted my health. It is a great physical and mental workout, and the other class members are lovely.

The ballet course has allowed me to reconnect with a part of myself I left behind as a teenager, in a positive, friendly environment, and has been enjoyable to revisit. Completing a dance sequence with precision and memory makes me feel proud of myself, which extends outside the course.

The tutor is wonderful and makes the hard work we do fun. I will continue to attend the course because it is something I really look forward to during the week.

For full details on enrolment please visit www.ideastore.co.uk/learning

Technical and DIY skills

We offer a range of courses aimed at helping you learn or develop your technical and DIY skills in a friendly and supportive environment.

You do not need to have any previous experience as we have courses from beginner through to improver levels. You may be working on individual projects or developing more advanced skills and techniques. The sessions are taught by highly skilled tutors and supported by a range of excellent resources.

A taste of some of the courses on offer:

l Upholstery

l Stained Glass

l Soft Furnishing for Upholstery

Languages

We offer a range of language courses from complete beginners to more advanced levels. These courses will help you improve your listening and speaking skills to confidently connect with native speakers and add an extra layer of fun when you are on holiday. Courses are held at Idea Store Whitechapel and Idea Store Canary Wharf.

A taste of some of the courses on offer:

l French

l Spanish

l Italian

l Arabic

Learner Experience:

I have learnt various skills such as several types of joints, use of appropriate tools and training on machinery.

I have built a large shoe rack and a television stand using reclaimed wood. I am very proud of these accomplishments and didn’t think I would be able to do this at the start of the course.

Being dyslexic I have very much enjoyed this practical style of learning and have appreciated the tutor’s support and teaching skills throughout.

Bryan McLaughlin - Woodwork Learner

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

Our ESOL classes take place across Idea Stores and in the community, from Pre-Entry to Level 1. All our courses are part-time within school hours (9-3). Courses are normally 10-12 weeks long, with three terms over the year. All our ESOL courses are currently face-to-face.

We assess your skills before you enrol and offer a personalised approach to learning, ensuring that courses meet your needs and that you are supported in reaching your goals.

ESOL Qualification Courses

These courses are offered from Entry 1 to Level 1 and you will work towards Skills for Life ESOL qualifications, accredited by Ascentis: l Speaking and listening l Reading l Writing

These classes will be given priority to unemployed learners actively seeking employment.

Non – Accredited ESOL Courses

ESOL First Steps to Learning

If you are a complete beginner, this course will help you learn the basics of English. You will learn to say simple sentences and to write the alphabet.

ESOL Literacy & Phonics

If you have spoken English at Entry 2 or above but you struggle with your literacy, this course will use phonics to help you improve your reading and writing skills.

Develop Your English, ESOL Entry 1-Level 1

Suitable for all levels, this course will help you to improve your grammar and literacy skills and build your confidence using English in everyday situations.

How do I enrol?

For details and dates of how to book a pre course ESOL assessment visit www.ideastore.co.uk/ learning/skills-for-life/esol or contact ESOLAdvice@ towerhamlets.gov.uk

Please note: A place on our ESOL courses is not guaranteed as we are heavily over-subscribed.

Before coming to the Idea Store I couldn’t speak, now I have found a job, because I came to the Idea Store to learn English.

Rubena Begum

I improved my communication skills as a newcomer to the UK.

Mojtaba Dehghanpour

Learner Experience: Green Week

Learners across our ESOL courses have the chance to enrich their learning by participating in our yearly Green Week, working together to learn about the environment, climate change and sustainability through workshops, activities and events.

At Idea Store Chrisp Street learners had creative workshops with Sunny Jar Eco Hub about plastic pollution and the impact locally and globally on biodiversity. They went on to design their own reusable bags to use in the local market. Learners have also learnt how to ride a bike, participated in litter picking, volunteered in Victoria Park with the gardening team and received tips and advice on topics such as gardening for small spaces and energy saving.

Do you need a qualification?

Do you want to brush up your English and maths skills for work or further study?

Do you want to improve your reading, writing, and numeracy skills for everyday life?

At Idea Store Learning we offer a range of English and maths courses to suit your needs and ambitions. We assess your skills before you enrol via an online BKSB assessment and offer a personalised approach to learning, ensuring that courses meet your needs in supporting you to reach your goals.

Functional Skills English and Maths Level 1 and Level 2

Our Functional Skills English and Maths courses are accredited and lead to a qualification with Pearson Edexcel. The courses are aimed at learners who have not achieved Level 2 in English and Maths (GCSE, Functional Skills or equivalent).

Non-accredited English and Maths Courses

Next Steps Maths

This is a short course for adults who do not speak English as a first language. The course covers numeracy skills and language used in real life contexts to help you develop your maths and gain confidence in the English language.

Essential Maths

Do you need to build your confidence with maths to help you to progress to maths qualifications for work or study? This course will help you develop your entry level maths skills and support you to progress to your next steps.

SPAG – Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar

This short course will help you to develop your skills in spelling, punctuation, and the correct use of grammar.

Developing your Writing Skills

This course will support you with basic literacy skills, improving your English writing skills to progress further with your work or study.

How do I enrol?

For dates and details of how to book a pre course English and maths assessment visit www.ideastore. co.uk/learning/skills-for-life/english-and-maths or contact functionalskills@towerhamlets.gov.uk

Learner Experience:

Susan Izzard - Functional Skills Maths

I am so happy I joined this course; it has really made a difference! I enjoy my classes, we learned together at our own pace, did a lot of revision, there were so many resources, different activities and opportunities to try things out.

I love my class; people here are so open and talk about everything. I could share so many observations and ideas and always felt people listened. My teacher helped me with my computer – I hate computers, I can’t do them. But we sat down after class, and I wrote down the process, and passwords, and then could join online classes and discuss my work from home.

When I was doing my English level 1 and improving my English, I feel confident about myself. I would like to help other women who believe they have barriers to remember they really want to learn and learning has no end.

Ruma Papia

Learning English has helped me feel more confident to make appointments for the hospital and for the GP. I now can talk to people and not feel so unsure.

Umalkhair Mustafa

Digital Skills and ICT

We offer a range of courses to help you get started in IT and improve your digital skills and we assess your skills before you enrol and offer a personalised approach to learning, ensuring that courses meet your needs.

First Steps

Need to know more about computers, the Internet or email? Enrol onto one of our friendly and supportive First Steps in Digital Skills classes.

Improve Your Digital Skills

If you are looking to improve your skills we offer courses for those who already understand the basics.

Qualify in ICT / Digital Skills

We offer nationally recognised qualifications in ICT including Essential Digital Skills at Entry Level 3 and Level 1.

Creative Digital Skills

Do you want to promote and sell your creative work? Edit video and audio? Are you starting a new business or selling a new product? Or looking to improve your social media and digital marketing skills? In Creative Digital Skills classes, you can focus on using different digital creative tools to level up your skills.

I have learnt lots of things about ICT. Before this class, even emailing from my mobile was a tough thing to do for me. Now I can create word documents using MS word, create a colourful poster, send an email attachment. I am aware of online safety and can create a strong password. I am more confident now.

How do I enrol?

For details and dates of how to book a pre course ICT assessment, come into an Idea Store to ask staff, or visit www.ideastore.co.uk/learning/skills-forlife/digital-skills.

Contact

Before doing this course, using my laptop was stressful for me, but now, computers release my stress. I feel good and relaxed while using a computer.

Idea Store Learning work with partners across the borough, including WorkPath, to deliver a range of Employability programmes that will support your path to employment.

Preparation for employment

These courses run regularly at the WorkPath offices and include:

l personal statement and CV writing

l interview skills

l cover letters and application forms

British Sign Language (BSL)

Learn to communicate using British Sign Language (BSL) on a range of topics using simple everyday language. You will start with our five week ‘Prepare for British Sign Language’ course in September. This is an introduction which progresses onto the 27-week qualification course.

Here’s what you can do with your Idea Store card

Books

Borrowing books is FREE.

Reserving

books

If you can’t find what you want on our shelves you can reserve it yourself for FREE

Computers and the Internet

All Idea Stores and Libraries have public computers for free. We also have FREE Wi-Fi

Local History

Our Local History Library and Archives holds outstanding and unique resources

resources.

How do I enrol?

If you are looking to increase your opportunities for employment and would also like further information about these courses, please register with WorkPath by scanning the QR code below.

To register your interest, and for further details, please email vocational.ideastore@towerhamlets.gov.uk

Activities and events

A wide range of free activities and events for adults, families and children.

Access to Council services

Idea

Accessibility

All our main Idea Store sites are accessible for those with reduced mobility. However at Shadwell Centre only classes on the ground floor are accessible to people with reduced mobility. A variety of support is available for disabled people or people with learning disabilities.

If you would like more information on the support available call us on 020 73645665 or email ideastorelearning@towerhamlets.gov.uk

Learning venue addresses

l Idea Store Whitechapel, 321 Whitechapel Road, London E1 1BU

l Idea Store Bow, 1 Gladstone Place, Roman Road, London E3 5ES

l Idea Store Canary Wharf, Churchill Place, Canary Wharf, London E14 5RB

l Idea Store Chrisp Street , 1 Vesey Path, East India Dock Road, London E14 6BT

l Idea Store Watney Market, 260 Commercial Road, London E1 2FB

l Shadwell Centre,* 455 The Highway, London E1W 3HP

Outreach Venues, details of venues will be given to you at assessment