French Improvers
This class is for students who wish to build up their confidence and extend their language skills in conversation. We will also work on grammar and vocabulary using texts, articles, videos, and quizzes providing an opportunity to learn about French culture and traditions.
Abstract Painting
Each lesson begins with an approachable practical experiment that is later developed using various materials such as acrylic paints, watercolours, pen and ink and collage. All will be demonstrated to understand how the materials can be used in each session and constant guidance will be given throughout the course. Contemporary artists are introduced and discussed […]
The Bookshop by Penelope Fitzgerald
An elegant short novel about Florence Green, a "small, wispy and wiry" widow who in 1959 is determined to open a bookshop in a small seaside town, against polite but ruthless local opposition. Penelope Fitzgerald is herself a true original, a superb and perceptive chronicler of eccentricity as well as conformity, with a firm moral […]
Get Writing for All
These classes are ideal for anyone who enjoys writing or would like to start. No experience is necessary. The emphasis is on having fun and through a combination of reference to published texts, writing and listening, confidence is built in writing fiction and non-fiction. Short, optional homework exercises are set weekly with supportive feedback from […]
Life Drawing
Drawing the human body is a wonderful way for anyone, from beginner to the more experienced, to improve their drawing skills. Using short and long poses, and a variety of media and materials we will explore the visual potential of the human form to create exciting images.
Creative Writing for Improvers
This course is for those with some basic knowledge and experience in creative writing who wish to continue to develop their skills in a supportive environment. It will focus on writing prose and the techniques used to write articles, short stories, novellas, and novels. • Develop your skills in the fundamentals of writing effective stories […]
A Journey through the most Beautiful Places in the Middle East
On this journey with Wafà, we will discover 25 of the most beautiful places of the Middle East. We will visit lush oases, endless deserts and UNESCO World Heritage sites from the Valley of the Kings, to Wadi Rum and Petra, to the Island of Qeshm, the largest in the Persian Gulf. We will discover […]
Contemporary Basketry Beginners
Sessions starting Nov 7th – 3D Traditional forms and contemporary twists This class, suitable for beginners, is an informal introduction to working with natural materials. We will make some simple contemporary forms on which to explore a range of basic basketry techniques and material processes.
Oil Painting
The afternoon Thursday oil painting group is a lively, approachable and unique class. Students are encouraged to build and respond to their own natural strengths and focus on building their own unique style within the painting process. Each student shall shape a diverse narrative from their own sources of inspiration, from their own sketches, photography […]
Psychopathology
This course, open to beginners, will include an examination into phobias and the understanding of personality disorders such as: Bi-Polar Schizophrenia Narcissism Psychopathy Sociopathy
Exploring Opera
Using a combination of talk, live and recorded musical examples and video, this course will steer you through the joyous experience of opera whether you are already experienced, a complete novice, or somewhere in between. The emphasis is on enjoyment of each work and many of them will be available to watch in the ‘Met. […]
Woven Tapestry
Learn woven tapestry skills at your own pace. A course perfect for learning the basics in tapestry weaving and for further developing skills and woven tapestry knowledge. Choose from a selection of projects aimed at various skill levels from beginner to improver. Lucy will work with you to help you develop your weaving and design […]
Chinese Intermediate
This course is for those who have a good basic knowledge of spoken Mandarin and Chinese characters. We will be following a textbook and lots of videos for conversation and vocabulary building. We will also be having fun practising more Chinese characters (excellent for mindfulness), reading simple Chinese books and news headlines, and following the […]
Greek Myth – The Labyrinth of Myth
Greek Myth – The Labyrinth of Myth The first five sessions will illustrate the interconnectedness and labyrinthine nature of Greek myth: 1. Introduction: - What is Greek myth? - How does it contribute to our understanding of the ancient world? - Our sources - Why it matters - Introduction to the family of Helios the […]
Chinese Beginners Plus
This course is for those who have a basic understanding of Mandarin Chinese, including Pinyin. We’ll be extending your vocabulary, learning from everyday conversations, having fun practising Chinese characters (good for mindfulness), reading simple Chinese books, and finding out about Chinese culture and customs. By the end of the course, you should be able to […]
Printmaking: Playing with Print
Let’s get printing! During this short course we will experiment with different types of printing techniques, gelli plate printing, silk screen, collograph, tetrapak, and lino using a variety of inks and paints. This will be a very informal relaxed course where we can share ideas and find inspiration for our printing projects.
Exploring Interior Design
This new course will develop your ability to visualise in three dimensions and make your Interior Design concept an exciting reality! You will learn how to measure, make a scale plan, use a colour wheel, create a mood board, and, crucially, work within budget. Suitable for beginners seeking a structured approach to their personal projects […]
Abstract Drawing
Join Callum Abbott in his first Settlement course in abstract drawing. Learn how to free your mind, and not simply draw what you see, but draw what you feel. We will be exploring shape, line, pattern as well as colour, and developing your skills to create different marks and experimenting with materials. No experience necessary, […]
Five Remarkable Women: in praise of pioneers
Five Remarkable Women: in praise of pioneers In this short series of two hour talks, our tutors offer their perspective on the lives and achievements of five extraordinary women, each of whom left a huge legacy within and often beyond their respective fields. Five Remarkable Women lectures, with Margaret Norwich, Christopher Budd, Louise […]
Simply Sewing Focus on Technique
We will develop our construction skills and sewing processes through making small and jolly projects in a workshop style. Your tutor will be including skills such as topstitching, trimming and layering seams, making binding, perfect zips, pressing and finishing to complete gorgeous things such as gift bags, make up purses, bunting and bags. (Perfect for […]
The Wright Brothers and the Science of Flight
In 1903, the Wright brothers kick-started the modern era of high-speed travel by air. With practically no data to work with, they built up their own with painstaking experimental kites and gliders. Their final mastery of powered flight is one of humanity’s greatest engineering achievements. The photographic evidence available online brings the story to life.
Portraiture
Portrait painting is becoming increasingly fashionable in the art world. There are many painting styles that can render a stunning portrait. New Settlement tutor Komathy is introducing this portraiture course to teach how to sketch and paint portraits. Komathy will provide guidance as you start your own painting. She will teach quick painting methods, how […]
Settlement Players – The Flint Street Nativity
The Flint Street Nativity by Tim Firth (writer of Calendar Girls, Neville's Island and Kinky Boots) Miss Horrocks' class of seven-year-olds is about to perform their nativity play at Flint Street Junior School for the proud mums and dads - and the occasional social worker. But squabbles arise when Gabriel wants to play Mary, the […]
Embroidery Coral Reef Mixed Media Textile Art
During this course we will create an intricate mixed-media piece of art inspired by coral reefs. We will use a variety of techniques to build up a textural 8-inch hoop. You will experiment with a range of fabrics, needle felting, simple printing, stitches & beads to build a unique piece of art to take home.
Still Life Drawing Club
Vanessa has been running a Still Life Drawing Club for the last three years in Newark on Trent and brings this monthly club to the Settlement. The club focuses on bringing out each person’s individual style by everyone working from a still life arrangement of fascinating objects and given the freedom to respond in different […]
Five Remarkable Women – Natalie Kalmus
Christopher Budd talks about Natalie Kalmus, the Dynamic Executive Head of the Technicolor Art Department. Natalie Kalmus was credited as ‘Colour Consultant’ of Technicolor films produced from 1934 to 1949.
The Educational Philosophy of the Settlement
What was the Settlement Movement? What were its goals for adult education? Does the Letchworth Settlement have the same goals today? What are the goals of adult education likely to become ?...and can we meet them? What is education for, anyway? If you are interested in these questions - or you have some of your […]
The Art of Architecture – 20th Century
Come and explore the history of architecture from its beginnings in the ancient world to the present time. This three lecture overview with James Willis will take you to ancient Egypt and Rome, the French Cathedrals, English Country gardens, modern New York and so much more! As the modern world expands through international trade and […]
Quiz Night
It’s that time of year when our Quiz Setters come along to the Kincaid Hall to tease us with another of their fiendish but fun quizzes. Maximum teams of 6 (one table) can be booked at £10 per head. Please book together to help us allocate seats. We can also allocate spaces if there are […]
Straw stars: Traditional Scandinavian Decorations
Join us for a cozy workshop where you’ll learn to create beautiful, handmade straw star decorations, perfect for adorning your home and Christmas tree. Inspired by the timeless tradition of Scandinavian craftsmanship, these elegant ornaments are often seen hanging in the windows of Scandinavian homes, adding a touch of warmth and charm. As well as […]
Christmas Wreath
Start the festive season with a fabulous handmade long lasting, hanging wreath ; if you would rather create a circular table piece that is also fine, just let your tutor know. All wonderful foliage and a lovely variety of decorations including ribbon are included along with a mossy ring to create a fantastic, natural style […]
Fused Glass Christmas Decorations
Personalise your tree or make a wonderful gift with hand-crafted fused glass decorations. During this workshop you will use pre-cut glass pieces to make your chosen design of decoration. You will make 3-4 decorations.
Sustainable Christmas Tree
Make this contemporary looking willow Christmas Tree complete with its’ own star and add twinkling lights of your choice when you get home. The tree will be approximately 1m tall x 35cm in diameter. Similar to a small plant support, it is made much more decorative by the use of many spiral coils and added […]
Christmas Table Centrepiece
You will learn all the tips and techniques to create a beautiful, long lasting elongated festive table centrepiece including candles and festive décor. A lovely session to follow the morning of wreath making for a full festive day out! Please let us know of any plant allergies when enrolling.
Tin treasures: Embossed folk art decorations
Join us for a festive workshop at The Settlement in Letchworth Garden City, where you’ll learn the art of embossing tin to create beautiful folk art decorations. In this hands-on class, you’ll discover traditional embossing techniques to craft intricate designs on tin sheets, transforming them into stunning ornaments perfect for your holiday decor. Whether you’re […]
Five Remarkable Women – Leonora Carrington
Join Louise Lahive for a talk about Leonora Carrington. In May 2024 Leonora Carrington’s work ‘Les Distractions de Dagobert’ was sold for £22.5 million at Sotheby's auction house in New York. At the time, this was a record amount paid for a work by a British-born female artist. But not many people have ever heard […]
Christmas Arts and Crafts Fair
Free Entry to Fair. Events include Raffle, Tombola, Tea, Cakes, Music and Mulled Wine.
The Beertles Saturday 7th December
The Beertles in Letchworth! Following the success last year of this fabulous Beatles tribute band, the Settlement presents, The Beertles in Letchworth live in the Kincaid Hall on Saturday 7th December at 8pm (doors: 7.30pm). “Mark & Tom as John & Paul are incredible” “What an amazing show, I’m buzzing! Licensed bar provided by Garden […]
A Hard Day’s Night
Come and relive all the fun, excitement, and chaos of Beatlemania at our special 60th anniversary screening of A Hard Day’s Night. Packed with classic Beatles songs written and recorded at lightning speed, this modestly made, relatively low budget pop flick captured a real sense of a cultural moment unfolding. Six decades on, it remains […]
The Beertles Sunday 8th December
The Beertles in Letchworth! EXTRA SHOW DUE TO PUBLIC DEMAND! Following the success last year of this fabulous Beatles tribute band, the Settlement presents, The Beertles in Letchworth, an extra show in the Kincaid Hall on Sunday 8th December at 7pm (doors: 6.30pm). “Mark & Tom as John & Paul are incredible” “What an amazing show, […]
Five Remarkable Women – Constance Lytton
Hear Craig Angus, Assistant Archivist at Knebworth House, Park & Gardens talk about the life of suffragette, Lady Constance Lytton of Knebworth, using photos, letters and family documents from the Knebworth House Archive, to discuss the part she played in the struggle for women’s suffrage and the life changing effect it had upon her.
Willow Christmas Decorations – Angels, Stars, and Reindeer
Learn how to make some lovely festive decorations in this workshop suitable for beginners. You can make as many of each as time allows. Choose from cute angels, star wands, or one-stick reindeer – a truly ancient method of bending and wrapping a withy to represent an animal; ours will include small rose prunings for […]
Le Club de Culture Francaise
Come and join us for 2 hours of fun that will include a presentation of different aspects of French culture. There will be books magazines and DVD that you can borrow. This French immersion afternoon will give you also an opportunity to chat and enjoy the company of others whilst sharing fun activities around French […]
A Christmas Carol – A Reading
A Christmas Carol – A Reading Living Theatre, the group that stunned the Letchworth Festival earlier this year with their performance in Howard Park, is set to appear at the Settlement in the Kincaid Hall on Friday 13th December, at 7pm. With two actors taking inspiration from Charles Dickens’ famous public readings, Living Theatre presents […]
Block Printing Workshop
Woodblock-printing or block-printing is a great technique for printing text, images, or patterns, and is used widely throughout East Asia, having originated in China. Learn and experiment with block printing in this new workshop open to all.
Classic Albums: The Elvis Christmas Album & Phil Spector’s A Christmas Gift for You
Join us for the next in our series of talks about the most influential LPs in music history. In a seasonal special, Stephen Barnard and Christopher Budd reveal the stories behind two of the most familiar and top selling Christmas records ever made – Elvis Presley’s Christmas Album (1957) and Phil Spector’s A Christmas Gift […]
Pete and Mike’s Christmas Cracker
What better way to get into the spirit of Christmas than to join Peter Chapman and Mike O’Neill for their programme of your favourite Christmas songs, carols and seasonal readings. You can smell those chestnuts roasting already! O Come… and have a great afternoon of festive fun! Peter Chapman (voice) and Mike O’Neill (piano) put […]
Five Remarkable Women – Dusty Springfield
Join Stephen Barnard as he talks about Dusty Springfield, a true pioneer of blue-eyed soul music and arguably the first female pop singer to take control of her own career.
Watercolours
This opportunity is for anyone wishing to explore watercolours, from beginner to the more experienced painter. We will be looking at different theories, and practical applications, exploring this versatile medium. We will find our preferred technique and develop our personal style. From portraits to florals, landscapes to botanical, we will delve into subjects working from […]
Get Writing for All
These classes are ideal for anyone who enjoys writing or would like to start. No experience is necessary. The emphasis is on having fun and through a combination of reference to published texts, writing and listening, confidence is built in writing fiction and non-fiction. Short, optional homework exercises are set weekly with supportive feedback from […]
Perceiving the World
This course will explore the psychology involved in our interpretation and misinterpretation of the world around us. It will cover a range of topics including why we are taken in by visual illusions, why eyewitness testimony can be so unreliable and how we use non-verbal cues to interpret the real meaning behind what people say.
Abstract Painting
Each lesson begins with an approachable practical experiment that is later developed using various materials such as acrylic paints, watercolours, pen and ink and collage. All will be demonstrated to understand how the materials can be used in each session and constant guidance will be given throughout the course. Contemporary artists are introduced and discussed […]
Writing your Memoirs
Have you thought about writing your life story but are concerned that you will not know how? If so, this course is for you. In a supportive atmosphere, you will be offered suggestions designed to give you confidence in writing even if you have never done anything like this before. You may find that this […]
Art Jam! Mixed Media Sketchbook Club
Dive into the vibrant world of sketchbook play, where creativity knows no bounds! This exhilarating practice not only sparks your imagination but also unleashes your artistic potential. With each stroke, you’ll boost your skills in line work and color application while exploring fresh concepts and themes without the pressure of perfection. It’s a therapeutic escape […]
