Adult education
The St Martin’s Learning Centre is currently being renovated, all our courses are running as usual from the High Trees Education Hub. Find directions here
Whether you want to study to discover your potential, gain essential skills, increase your confidence, access further training, improve your career prospects or gain qualifications, you are in the right place!
High Trees run an exciting variety of free courses, including functional skills ICT, English and Maths, ESOL classes, vocational courses, Family Learning, Art and Wellbeing and Community Organising courses.
Our offer of accredited and non-accredited courses range from basic skills that can help with employment or build skills for everyday life, to specialised accredited courses that can provide routes into new areas (such as housing, community action or education).
Our provision is delivered across all High Trees venues, which includes the High Trees Learning Centre, the Scout’s Hut and the Tulse Hill Adventure Playground, or in multiple other venues in Lambeth, including children’s centres and libraries.
We recognise that some learners have previously had little or negative experiences of education and training, so we aim to offer all of our courses in a supportive environment and to provide you with the best guidance about opportunities for volunteering, accessing further or higher education and training.
If you are interested in a course that is not on the list or if you are unsure of what course or level suits your needs, our adult education and training team are here to help you in identifying the most suitable course for you. Please get in touch with our team at 0208 671 3132 or email courses@high-trees.org.
Take a look at our course guide
Available Courses
Click a button to filter courses by topic
Award in Information, Advice and Guidance Level 2 (Accredited)
May 3, 2022
Course details
Gain a specialist qualification in giving advice, information or guidance in any setting (e.g. education, employment support, youth services etc.)
The course runs on Tuesday and Wednesday from 10am – 3pm from the 3rd of May till the 14th of June online via Zoom.
Information, Advice & Guidance for Youth Workers
May 9, 2022
Course details
Gain a specialist qualification in giving advice, information or guidance that will improve your career prospects!
This course will run from the High Trees Community Education & Training from Monday 9th May.
Care Worker Pre-Employment Training with Holistic Care
May 23, 2022
Course details
This course will provide applicants with skills to support them into a Care Worker role with Holistic Care. All Applicants will receive a guaranteed interview on completion 5 day Pre Employment Zoom Training delivered by High Trees and Holistic Care at the St Martin’s Scout Hut, SW2 3PU
Award in Education and Training Level 3
May 27, 2022
Course details
Do you want to explore a career in teaching and training? This specialised accredited course will provide you with an introduction to teaching and training in a variety of contexts. During this you will gain awareness of key principles, methodology and practice of teaching.
This course will run on Friday 10am-3pm (the date is to be confirmed) at High Trees Community Education and Training Hub. Please note that this course is funded by Lambeth Housing and it is exclusively open to learners who are Lambeth Housing tenants. You will be asked to provide proof of address in order to join the course. All participants will get access to teaching online resources and the opportunity of 1:1 sessions.
ESOL at Hitherfield Children’s Centre
September 15, 2022
Course details
Do you speak English as a second language? Do you want to improve your speaking, listening, reading and writing to have the confidence to get more involved in your local community? This is the course for you! This course runs on Thursday 9.30am – 11.30am from the 15th September until the 1st December at Hitherfield Children’s Centre, SW16 2LW.
- Free on-site crèche facilities are available whilst you are studying
- All children under 5 years old are welcome, however, some children’s centres may be restricted to 6 months and above
- Please be aware that crèche spaces are limited and we may have to restrict the place to one child per learner
Preparation to Maths Functional Skills Entry 1-3
September 15, 2022
Course details
This is a preparation course to get your skills and knowledge ready for Maths Entry levels. This 2 days course runs from the 15th September from 10 am – 3.30 pm at High Trees Community Education and Training Hub.
Learn how to use Maths in everyday life and gain a qualification in the field!
All participants will get access to teaching online resources and the opportunity of 1:1 sessions. We are able to accommodate learners who are unable to attend for the whole duration of the class and we will work with you to support you to learn in a friendly and supportive environment. This course is funded by Lambeth Adult Learning and is open to all London residents aged 19 +.
ESOL at Benton’s Lane Children’s Centre
September 16, 2022
Course details
Do you speak English as a second language? Do you want to improve your speaking, listening, reading and writing to have the confidence to get more involved in your local community? This is the course for you! This course runs on Fridays 9.30am – 11.30am from the 16th September to the 2nd December at Benton’s Lane Children Centre, SE27 9UD
- Free on-site crèche facilities are available whilst you are studying
- All children under 5 years old are welcome, however, some children’s centres may be restricted to 6 months and above
- Please be aware that crèche spaces are limited and we may have to restrict the place to one child per learner
ESOL Pre-Entry
September 19, 2022
Course details
Do you speak English as a second language? Join our FREE ESOL online course to improve your English reading, writing & speaking and listening skills!
This ESOL course runs every Monday 10am – 13pm from the 19th September to the 5th December at the Scout Hut in Tulse Hill SW2 3PX. This is an Entry Level class, so perfect if this is the first time you are studying with us. Our ESOL courses are fun, engaging and accessible! All learners will get access to teaching resources and the opportunity of 1:1 support with their teacher.
Preparation to English Functional Skills Entry 1-2
September 19, 2022
Course details
This is a one day preparation course on Monday 19th September from 9.30-3pm to ensure your skills and knowledge are ready for English Functional Skills.
This course will give you the skills to follow and understand the main points of discussion and in return give your own points of view and provide appropriate responses. You will be able to read and understand texts in different formats using techniques appropriate to the task.
The course will also focus on ability to plan, draft and organise writing, logically and clearly using basic grammar and verb tense with the ability to check the accuracy of work including the spelling.
ESOL Entry 1
September 20, 2022
Course details
Do you speak English as a second language? Join our FREE ESOL course to improve your English reading, writing & speaking and listening skills!
This ESOL course runs every Tuesday 10am – 13pm from the 20th September to the 6th December at the Scout Hut in Tulse Hill SW2 3PX. This is an Entry Level, so perfect if this is the first time you are studying with us. Our ESOL courses are fun, engaging and accessible!
Introduction to ICT Entry 1-3
September 20, 2022
Course details
Our accredited Functional Skills ICT courses are designed for learners who want to learn practical, transferable skills in ICT in order to work confidently, effectively and independently in life and achieve a qualification.
This is a preparation course to ensure your skills and knowledge are at the right level to enter Entry level ICT. This course runs on Tuesday 10am-4.30pm until the 27th September at High Trees Learning Centre. By completing the course, you will demonstrate that you have mastered the use of ICT in everyday life and will make you more attractive to employers. You will be able to progress on a Functional Skills qualification in ICT which will cover – email and file management – presenting information in the correct format – designing professional looking posters/presentations - using Excel to make calculations, design charts and graphs - maintaining a secure network – taking into account relevance, bias and copyright when using information.
Preparation to English Functional Skills Entry 3
September 21, 2022
Course details
This is a one day preparation course on Wednesday 21st September from 9.30-3pm to ensure your skills and knowledge are ready for English Functional Skills Entry 3.
This course will give you the skills to follow and understand the main points of discussion and in return give your own points of view and provide appropriate responses. You will be able to read and understand texts in different formats using techniques appropriate to the task.
The course will also focus on ability to plan, draft and organise writing, logically and clearly using basic grammar and verb tense with the ability to check the accuracy of work including the spelling.
ICT for Beginners
September 22, 2022
Course details
Would you like to be more confident with computers? This ICT for beginners class is a two-day course running on Thursday 22nd, and 29th September from 10am – 4pm at High Trees. Learn to use email, search engines and Microsoft software. To find out more information and to register your interest, get in contact with our Education & Training team. Spaces are limited.
After this introduction, you may be able to progress on another ICT course
Family ESOL Learn & Play
September 22, 2022
Course details
Bring your child along to our Family Learn and Play sessions. Practice your English with our tutors and meet other Parents! This course runs Thursday 1.30pm – 3pm from the 22nd September to the 8th December at the Tulse Hill Adventure Playground.
ESOL Conversation Club
September 23, 2022
Course details
Do you speak English as a second language? Do you want to improve your speaking and communication skills? This course is open to all learners enrolled on our ESOL classes and is ideal for those who want to gain additional skills in English and improve their confidence in speaking.
This ESOL course runs every Friday from 10am to 12pm from the 23rd September to the 9th December at the Scout Hut in Tulse Hill SW2 3PX. Our ESOL courses are fun, engaging and accessible!
Yoga for Mindfulness
September 26, 2022
Course details
This course focuses on yoga practice, mediation and breathing exercises for relaxation and stress reduction. This class runs every Monday 6 pm – 8 pm from the 26th of September to the 31st of October at the High Trees.
Excel course
September 26, 2022
Course details
This course is ideal for those who are already familiar with computers and Microsoft Office suite and are looking to explore Excel more in depth.
During this course you will explore Excel functions such as use of tabs and their tools, data format, basic formulas, use of hyperlink, use of filters and have an introduction to Pivot table and their use.
English Functional Skills E1-E2
September 26, 2022
Course details
This course runs on Mondays 9.30am – 3pm from the 26th September to the 12th December at High Trees Learning centre.
This course will give you the skills to follow and understand the main points of discussion and in return give your own points of view and provide appropriate responses. You will be able to read and understand texts in different formats using techniques appropriate to the task.
The course will also focus on the ability to plan, draft and organise writing, logically and clearly using basic grammar and verb tense with the ability to check the accuracy of work including the spelling.
Mindful Mandala Mosaic
September 28, 2022
Course details
Working with patterns and colours you will learn an array of mosaic techniques to help you create your own mosaic mandala. A unique meditative mosaic class to encourage creativity and mindfulness.
This is a five-week course runs every Wednesday 9.30 am – 12 pm starting on the 28th September until the 2nd November at the High Trees.
English Functional Skills E3
September 28, 2022
Course details
This course runs on Wednesday 9.30am – 3pm from the 28th September to the 14th December at High Trees Learning centre.
This course will give you the skills to follow and understand the main points of discussion and in return give your own points of view and provide appropriate responses. You will be able to read and understand texts in different formats using techniques appropriate to the task.
The course will also focus on the ability to plan, draft and organise writing, logically and clearly using basic grammar and verb tense with the ability to check the accuracy of work including the spelling.
ESOL Entry 2
September 28, 2022
Course details
Do you speak English as a second language? Have you studied with us before and want to progress onto a more advanced course? Our FREE ESOL courses are designed to improve your English reading, writing & speaking and listening skills!
This ESOL course runs Wednesday 10am – 12pm from the 28th September to the 7th December at the Scout Hut in Tulse Hill SW2 3PX. Our ESOL courses are fun, engaging and accessible! All learners will get access to teaching resources and the opportunity of 1:1 sessions with their teacher.
Online safety for parents and carers
September 28, 2022
Course details
This two day course is aimed to support parents and carers to improve their knowledge and understanding of the risk their children may face on line.
The course will run on 28th September and 5th October 10am-1.30pm at the High Trees,
ESOL Entry 2-3
September 29, 2022
Course details
Do you speak English as a second language? Have you studied with us before and want to progress onto a more advanced course? Our FREE ESOL courses are designed to improve your English reading, writing & speaking and listening skills!
This ESOL course runs every Thursday 10am – 12pm from the 29th September to the 8th December at the Scout Hut in Tulse Hill SW2 3PX. Our ESOL courses are fun, engaging and accessible!
All learners will get access to teaching resources and the opportunity of 1:1 support with their teacher.
Maths Functional Skills Entry 1-3
September 29, 2022
Course details
Learn how to use Maths in everyday life and gain a qualification in the field!
This accredited course will run on Thursday 10am – 3.30pm from the 29th September to the 15th December at the High Trees Community Education and Training Hub. Upon successful completion, you will gain the NCFE Entry level Functional Skills Qualification in Mathematics.
All participants will get access to teaching online resources and the opportunity of 1:1 sessions. We are able to accommodate learners who are unable to attend for the whole duration of the class and we will work with you to support you to learn in a friendly and supportive environment. This course is funded by Lambeth Adult Learning and is open to all London residents aged 19 +.
Saturday ESOL
October 1, 2022
Course details
Do you speak English as a second language? Join our FREE ESOL course to improve your English reading, writing & speaking and listening skills!
This ESOL course runs every Saturday 11am to 2pm from the 1st October to the 19th November at the Scout Hut in Tulse Hill SW2 3PX.
This is an Entry Level, so perfect if this is the first time you are studying with us. Our ESOL courses are fun, engaging and accessible!
ICT Entry 1-3
October 4, 2022
Course details
This course runs on Tuesday 10 am – 3 pm from the 4th of May to the 13th of December at High Trees Community Education and Training Hub.
The Level 2 Functional Skills in ICT course is the equivalent of grade 4 (C) at the GCSE level. By completing the course, you will demonstrate that you have mastered the use of ICT in everyday life and will make you more attractive to employers. You will gain a Functional Skills qualification in ICT which will cover – email and file management – presenting information in the correct format – designing professional looking posters/presentations - using Excel to make calculations, design charts and graphs - maintaining a secure network – taking into account relevance, bias and copyright when using information.
ICT Entry 2
October 6, 2022
Course details
This course runs on Thursday 10am – 3pm from the 6th October to the 15th December at High Trees Community Education and Training Hub.
The Level 2 Functional Skills in ICT course is the equivalent of a grade 4 (C) at GCSE level. By completing the course, you will demonstrate that you have mastered the use of ICT in everyday life and will make you more attractive to employers. You will gain a Functional Skills qualification in ICT which will cover – email and file management – presenting information in the correct format – designing professional looking posters/presentations - using Excel to make calculations, design charts and graphs - maintaining a secure network – taking into account relevance, bias and copyright when using information.
Finance Skills for Everyday Life
October 6, 2022
Course details
This course will run on Thursday 10am – 3.30pm from the 6th October to the 13th October at the High Trees.
Award in Preparing to Work in School Level 1
October 7, 2022
Course details
Do you want a career working in schools? This course prepares you for all elements of working in a school setting.
The course runs on Monday and Thursday 10am – 3pm. This a free course for Lambeth Housing Tenants. Refreshments are provided and the cost of childcare will be covered.
Abellio Trainee Bus Driver Pre-Employment Training
October 10, 2022
Course details
Abellio are looking for TraineePCV Bus Drivers for South London.
This 5-day course will provide applicants with skills to support them into a PCV Bus Driver role with Abellio. The training will cover:
- A Day in the Life of a Bus Driver
- Customer Service the Abellio Way
- Work Place Expectations and Behaviours
- Health & Safety
- Interview Training
- Application Support
To register for this course you need to:
- Hold a Driving Licence and have one-year driving experience in the UK
- Have no previous drink driving convictions in the last 5 years
- No more than 6 penalty points
Introduction to Self-Employment
October 17, 2022
Course details
Our one-day course will teach you the basis of how to become self-employed, what it means for you and your business, how to declare your taxes, what support is available and so much more!
This training is ideal if you want explore career options, start your own business, or simply work as freelance.
This course will run on Monday 17th October 10am-4pm at the High Trees.
CIH Level 3 Housing Practice
October 24, 2022
Course details
Do you want to improve the housing sector? Then join us on this accredited course to gain all the skills and knowledge you need to drive change within Housing.
This specialised accredited qualification from the Chartered Institute of Housing, aims to drive improvement in the housing sector by equipping you with key skills and knowledge about the housing system. You will gain knowledge in occupancy, tenure, and lettings, exploring the Housing System and learn professional Practice Skills for Housing. This course is ideal for those are interested in exploring a career in the housing sector.
Please note that this course is funded by Lambeth Housing and it is exclusively open to learners who are Lambeth Housing tenants. You will be asked to provide a proof of address in order to join the course..
Abellio Bus Driver Pre-Employment Training
October 24, 2022
Course details
Abellio are looking for PCV Bus Drivers for South London.
This course will provide applicants with skills to support them into a PCV Bus Driver role with Abellio. To register for this course you need to:
- Hold a PCV driving licence with one-year experience driving in the UK
- Have no previous drink driving convictions in the last 5 years
- No more than 6 penalty points
Art of Confident Speaking
October 28, 2022
Course details
Do you want to be able to speak more confidently in public? Would you like to improve your ability to deliver presentations, succeed at interviews or contribute to meetings? Join us on this short course to unlock your potential as a public speaker!
This fun, energetic two day course will teach you strategies of public speaking. You will learn key principles for successfully speaking in front of an audience and get opportunities to practice, including for
job interviews.
This course will run on Friday from 10:00 am – 15:30 pm at High Trees.
One Day Food & Hygiene Level 2
November 4, 2022
Course details
The course is designed for anyone who works with, or handles food and wants to meet the UK food training requirements. In this course you will learn about the impact of food-borne illnesses, food safety hazards and contamination, food preservation, storage and temperature control, as well as HACCP.
This course will run on Friday 10am – 4.30pm (the date is to be confirmed) at the High Trees.
Introduction to Community Organising
November 18, 2022
Course details
On this course, you will explore and develop your understanding of power, which is what drives community organising: what power means and how power can be built in the community to overcome social injustice and create change.
This one-session course will take place on Friday 10am to 5pm at High Trees (date to be confirmed). The course also provides a reminder of the basics of community organising which are covered in our Introduction to Community Organising course. Sessions are designed so that everybody can take part and share their ideas and experiences and learn some practical tools and skills.