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History courses in the Midlands

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Regrettably, the only thing in the Birmingham area is about the Woman's land army. My interest in Birmingham history was started by WEA courses, when they had government and university support. Now government seems only interested in courses that are to do with careers (even if some are run by dubious people out to con money for no good result), and though universities (such as Birmingham) do have courses, they are rather academic and expensive.
 
Yes Mike, I have found this out too. That's why I thought I'd ask the forum. But it's good to learn about such organisations like WEA, so I have been furnished with good information.
 
I'm afraid that universities are driven by government targets and the requirement to make money these days. I began teaching Extramural, Continuing Education and WEA courses. I also taught for the OU while I worked on my PhD. But while there are many excellent academic courses, students generally need a first degree in a related subject and pay expensive course fees. Leicester has an MA in Local History which can be studied part-time over two years, but it costs £8600. (This is a typical post-graduate fee and some are more expensive.)

I regret this, but 'we are where we are' as they say these days.

Most universities do have occasional study days for those with an interest in a particular subject.
 
Strawberry Hunter said:
Although I'd have thought there would be more courses in Birmingham. Especially as its such a large area.
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I would look at the links that Derek sent and talk to those folks. They’re maybe more availability at the local level. I have participated (zoom) at events from Sutton Coldfield Library that were very good! I would expect of libraries to have similar programs or could direct you.
 
Strawberry Hunter said:
I think we are where we are sums it up quite well to be honest. Thank goodness for the forum, at least I can get an idea of what is going on.
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If you are interested in Shakespeare, the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust https://www.shakespeare.org.uk has a virtual course on Macbeth for £55.

The Black Country Museum has conferences and study days (nothing at present though) excepts for schools.

Birmingham and Midland Institute in Margaret Street will have a day programme. You can see last year's. They will post next year's after Christmas.
 
I have noticed the BMI on my searches via the Internet. Would I have to be a member? Also, where would the nearest car park be? I have just looked and I think I'd have to be a member and maybe there's a multi storey car park on Edward Street? I only had a quick look.
 
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Strawberry Hunter said:
I have noticed the BMI on my searches via the Internet. Would I have to be a member? Also, where would the nearest car park be? I have just looked and I think I'd have to be a member and maybe there's a multi storey car park on Edward Street? I only had a quick look.
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'For any non-members interested in attending any of our events, please see our Twitter or Facebook pages for event information. Alternatively you can search for the event on our Eventbrite Page.' It costs a few pounds more to attend individual events if you are not a member. What about Town Hall carpark? (The Red Cage in Navigation Street?) I come in by rail these days.
 
Just thinking out loud: does it have to be a formal CLASS or something like they do at the Sutton Library? My wife and I have attendEd a number of library and society presented classes. We are not looking for university credits just good subject knowledge. We have a lot of that stuff in the US, I would expect so much more in Birmingham and surrounding areas.
 
It doesn't have to be anything formal Richard.

I've looked at Twitter for the BMI, nothing for 2023, and I can't see anything stating a price for entry to the courses!

I think I'll look next year and email them for more info.
 
Before covid the Gubnmakers Arms used to have occasional history talks (accompanied by very good beer) , but I don't think (looking at their facebook page), they seem to be having them since, just the music events and some art displays
 
mikejee said:
Before covid the Gubnmakers Arms used to have occasional history talks (accompanied by very good beer) , but I don't think (looking at their facebook page), they seem to be having them since, just the music events and some art displays
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That sounds like a really great idea! Seriously
 
mikejee said:
Before covid the Gubnmakers Arms used to have occasional history talks (accompanied by very good beer) , but I don't think (looking at their facebook page), they seem to be having them since, just the music events and some art displays
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They were quite good, they would open up the brewery part of the pub for the events.
 
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