Mary Ward Centre Campuses

The Mary Ward Centre, located in the heart of Bloomsbury, London, is a renowned adult education institution offering a diverse array of courses designed to enrich personal development, skills, and community engagement. As part of the University of the Arts London network's adult education offerings, it focuses on accessible learning for all ages and backgrounds.

Our arts and crafts programs are a cornerstone, providing hands-on experiences in painting, drawing, pottery, and textiles. Beginners can explore watercolours and acrylics through guided workshops, while advanced learners delve into portraiture and landscape techniques. Sculpture classes introduce clay modelling and metalwork, fostering creativity and therapeutic expression.

• Visual Arts: From life drawing to digital illustration, courses emphasize technique and imagination.
• Crafts: Knitting, sewing, and jewellery making build practical skills for hobbyists and professionals.

Language courses cater to multilingual needs, with ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) levels from pre-entry to advanced, including conversation practice and exam preparation for IELTS. Modern foreign languages like French, Spanish, Italian, and German offer immersive sessions from beginner to intermediate, incorporating cultural insights through films and literature.

• ESOL: Tailored for integration, covering grammar, vocabulary, and real-life communication.
• European Languages: Interactive classes with native speakers to enhance fluency.

Computing and digital skills are vital in today's world; our IT courses range from basic computer literacy and internet safety to advanced Microsoft Office, web design, and coding in HTML/CSS. Digital photography and video editing workshops equip learners with tools for creative and professional use.

• Basic IT: Mouse skills, email, and word processing for absolute beginners.
• Advanced Digital: Photoshop, programming basics, and cybersecurity awareness.

Health and wellbeing initiatives promote holistic growth through yoga, mindfulness meditation, nutrition, and dance fitness. These classes support mental health, physical activity, and stress management, often in partnership with local health services.

• Yoga and Pilates: Gentle to vigorous sessions for flexibility and strength.
• Mindfulness: Techniques for anxiety reduction and emotional resilience.

Performing arts include music theory, singing choirs, and drama improvisation, encouraging performance confidence. Cookery courses cover healthy eating, baking, and international cuisines, with hands-on kitchen sessions.

• Music and Voice: From guitar basics to ensemble singing.
• Culinary Arts: Vegetarian cooking, patisserie, and food hygiene certification.

Additionally, professional development courses in counselling, teaching assistants, and business skills prepare learners for career advancement. With small class sizes and expert tutors, the Centre ensures personalized learning. Over 2,000 courses annually attract thousands, creating a vibrant community hub. Whether seeking leisure, upskilling, or qualification, Mary Ward Centre empowers lifelong learning in an inclusive environment.