facilities

What can I study?
Just about everything! Take a look at the range of courses on the page facing this one, and you will see what we mean. Most courses are just for pleasure, although with some you can get a qualification - it just depends what you want. If in doubt ask Mary at the main office and see what we've got to offer.

Who runs the Centre?
The Centre is owned by Derbyshire County Council, but it is run by the WEA (Workers' Educational Association). You probably haven't heard of us before, but we are Britain's largest nationally-based adult education provider, and we've been around in Chesterfield since 1908 ! More importantly, we are a voluntary organisation, managed by and responsible to our ordinary student members - and you can become a member if you would like to, when you join one of our classes. We are also a Registered Charity and a College of Further Education.

Qualifications?
Do you need any, or experience to come on the courses? Absolutely not. Many of our courses are aimed at absolute beginners. We particularly welcome those who haven't studied anything since they left school. Above all we want to show you that the dreaded word education can be fun, as well as giving you the self-confidence to have a go at something new.

Child care while you study
We have a fully-registered Crèche managed by a qualified nursery nurse. The Crèche is inspected on a yearly basis by Social Services which enforces strict guidelines regarding staff ratios, child protection, health and safety, equal opportunities and the promotion of an overall atmosphere conducive to the needs of pre-school children. A happy and secure environment is our main aim, whilst the parent/guardian remains on the premises. Use of our crèche is free for students enrolled on our courses. The crèche is open from 9.45 am - 12.15 pm on Monday, Tuesday and Fridays each week.

Refreshment Lounge
Our Refreshment Lounge is a good place to relax and meet people on other courses. Most course sessions include a short break, giving the opportunity to sample the drinks and snacks available and for informal discussion with other students and with your course tutor.

Access
Most, but not all, rooms are wheelchair accessible. Ramped entrance gives full access to rooms on the ground floor and a lift provides access to all rooms except the PC suite on the first floor. Where possible room allocations will be amended to ensure students can access the course of their choice.

Hearing Impaired
Some rooms are equipped with a hearing loop. Please tell us when you enrol if you need this facility.

Car Parking
Car parking in the immediate area is not easy! The Hurst House car park is reserved for staff and disabled students. There is sometimes space in the surrounding streets (please observe local signs), but we strongly advise motorists to use the town centre car parks, which are less than five minutes walk away.

Room Lettings
Enquiries are welcome from any Society with cultural, educational or recreational interests wishing to meet in Hurst House.