The Workers' Educational Association (WEA) is a countrywide, and indeed international, organisation that responded to a surge of demand for adult education at the beginning of the century. It was founded as an adult educational charity with no religious or party political ties and now caters for a wide range of educational opportunities. More information about the WEA national organisation can be found on their web site www.wea.org.uk.

Northamptonshire has been providing courses since the First World War. The branch in Helmdon has been running courses twice a year, almost without a break, since 1959. They cover a wide range of subjects such as architecture, creative writing, literature, art and music appreciation, local and world history, current affairs and natural sciences. Courses typically last 10 weeks and are designed to be friendly and enjoyable using expert tutors. No qualifications are required to join.

If you have a disability or extra learning needs then the WEA will try to help - please contact us before you start the course. The WEA is now supported by funds from the Learning and Skills Council so that tuition fees can be kept as low as possible. In some cases no fee is payable and/or funds may be available to help with books, travel, childcare and tuition fees. Please see the courses page for more information and contact details.

If you are an adult education tutor based in, or close to, Northamptonshire, and can provide courses on subjects such as those mentioned above, the WEA would be very pleased to hear from you. Please see the entry on the county activities page for more information and contact details.

Workers’ Educational Association, registered charity number 1112775. Company limited by guarantee in England & Wales number 2806910. Registered office: Quick House, 65 Clifton St, London EC2A 4JE