Friday 1 July 2022

 DATA PROTECTION: NO PERSONAL DATA IS COLLECTED OR STORED BY BLOGGER
ENTERTAINING & EDUCATIONAL EVENTS IN SUSSEX UK - FUN AS WELL AS FACTUAL
KEEP VISITING THIS SITE FOR REGULAR UPDATES -DETAILS OF VENUES BOTTOM OF PAGE 
 Check venues, fees, dates before booking - accurate as possible, but may change, be postponed or cancelled. 
                      Brighton & Hove Open Door 2022  
                    Heritage Open Days (9-18 September 2022) 
England’s largest grass roots heritage festival involving over 40,000 volunteers and 5,000 events. A chance to see hidden places and try new experiences – all of which are FREE                 
Woodvale Crematorium (cemetery) Brighton, BN2 3QB
Guided tour

More than gravestones.

Beautiful, grounds, full of trees and winding pathways; monuments, statues, symbolism and chapels as well as the grave in a glade of Thomas Highflyer the rescued 12 year old slave boy.

Saturday 10 September £Free. Pre-booking only. Limited to 20 places FULL

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-grand-cemetery-tour-tickets-387931332057
THIS TOUR WILL BE GOING AHEAD SO IF YOU'VE BOOKED DO TURN UP
                                            
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

📢 2022-23 ** ADULT EDUCATION COURSES  ** 
                                                                                        START SEPTEMBER 2022
DETAILS OF MY HISTORY COURSES AT BRIGHTON METROPOLITAN COLLEGE (MET):
https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-part-time
  .
TAUGHT AT PELHAM STREET CAMPUS, BRIGHTON: 1A Pelham Street, BN1 4FA
E: admissions-brighton@gbmc.ac.uk Tel 01273 667704/667788
COVID PRECAUTIONS:  FACE COVERING MAY BE WORN IF YOU WISH IN CLASSROOMS  AND PUBLIC AREAS. WINDOWS ARE KEPT OPEN, SANITIZERS FREELY AVAILABLE

PLEASE TEST AT HOME PRIOR TO ATTENDING CLASS, THOUGH NOT MANDATORY. DO NOT ATTEND CLASS IF YOU HAVE COVID OR SYMPTOMS OR COLD/COUGH OR FEEL UNWELL.

2022-2023 COURSE DETAILS 
Early enrolment essential to secure your place

This is a work in progress and takes a long time  to  complete

All my MET history courses are here: https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-part-time

All other courses and events here on this blog..

MET Courses are taught at MET Pelham Street unless otherwise stated

AUTUMN 2022

Life, Work and Leisure in Late Victorian Britain (1865-1895)

We focus on cultural aspects of society, considering and contrasting expansion and development, and reflecting on wider issues surrounding debates on effects of change in society, community as a whole and women's status.

We look at various transforming revolutions which impacted on society, including advances in technology, the electrical revolution of 1870, and scientific thought - some of which caused landowners to reconsider agricultural methods of farming; this in turn effecting changes in rural and urban life. During this period there was considerable migration from country to town which brought about changes in traditional ways of living. Plus, we consider other facets which remained constant, such as the huge gap between the lives of wealthy and poor.

We also discuss social investigation and reforms, including Charles Booth's “Life and Labour of the People in London” and his famous poverty maps. Social conscience among the burgeoning middle classes led to social investigation and action. There were many women social investigators, such as Brighton born Clementina Black (1853-1922), feminist, author and social reformer who was involved with the 1888 Match Girl’s Strike at the Bryant and May factory – conditions we also study.  Illustrated with PowerPoint slideshows.

10 weeks Monday 1.30-3.30pm Start 19 September Ref No: CL0029-1C Fee £148 (Concessions available). Pelham campus. 4 remaining places

Enrol: https://www.gbmc.ac.u/the-life-work-leisure-victorian-britain-brighton-metleisure


Women: WWII Homefront and Post-war Britain   (1939-1960)

For those who are interested in women’s studies and what life was like for them at work and in the home during the second world war; and post-war (late1940s & 50s), when lives and conditions had changed considerably.

We study life for women at war and on the homefront: their occupations in the armed services, as pilots, doctors, nurses, typists, clerks, working on the land, in the forces, in factories, in the WRVS and other voluntary organisations, as well as being housewives and mothers.

At home during war and after, women had to cope with rationing and learning to ‘make do and mend’ while attempting to remain glamorous keeping up with fashion and cosmetics.

When war ended women found it difficult to give up their new independence. Family life changed and so did relationships. We investigate social and cultural changes that followed the upheavals of World War 2, including architecture, housing, living and working conditions, relationships, fashion, books, cinema and public health - such as the forming of the NHS in 1948. We also focus on changes for women and the adjustments to their domestic, social and family life following the war. Illustrated with PowerpoInt slideshows,and documentary film.

10 weeks Tuesday 3-5pm Start 20 September Ref:CL0083-1C Fee £148 (Concessions available). Pelham Street campus. 

Enrol: https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-wwii-homefront-post-war-britain-met-leisure


MET course taught at Whitehawk Inn Community Centre, Brighton BN2 5NS

            Buses stop outside. Car parking in side streets.  

 WINDOW AND DOOR ARE KEPT OPEN. NO MINGLING IN RECEPTION AREA. PRE-ORDERED DRINKS ARE BROUGHT TO CLASSROOM BY MEMBER OF STAFF. PLEASE TEST AT HOME PRIOR TO ATTENDING CLASS, THOUGH NOT MANDATORY. DO NOT ATTEND CLASS IF YOU HAVE COVID OR SYMPTOMS OR COLD/COUGH OR FEEL UNWELL.

Gorgeous Georgians: Life in Eighteenth Century England (1714-1800)

We study an age of elegant living – and not so elegant living in countryside and town. This was a time of enlightenment, the arts, culture, literature, the Grand Tour, scientific experiment, observance of nature and new ideas.

We contrast the elegant magnificence of the buildings and stunningly lavish life of a small handful of society contrasted with the devastatingly poor members of the lower class who lived in abject poverty and the grim goings-on of the underworld of pickpockets, thieves, prostitutes, gamblers and gin-drinkers – of all 

Not only a time of intrigue, debt and excess but also many interesting and colourful personalities – men and women who wrote, painted, sculpted, made beautiful gold, silver glass or pottery, dressed in the extremes of fashion, were witty or worthless, talented, intellectual but never dull. A hugely fascinating period. Illustrated with powerpoint slideshows

10 weeks Wednesday 1-3pm Start 21 September Ref: CL0418-1C Fee £30  FULL: waiting list      https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/gorgeous-georgians-brightons-history-metleisur                                                                                   

            

 VICTORIAN DEATH AND MOURNINGFASCINATING RITUALS & CUSTOMS       

Dido's Lament 2017 C Valentina Lari/Sarah Tobias

For those interested in the lengthy and intricate rituals associated with death, grief and mourning which played an intricate and symbolic role in Victorian life. There is nothing macabre and the customs are fascinating and intriguing.

Death was a regular occurrence in the Victorian period and not feared. Mourning was filled with complex rituals and lasted a long time - two years and a day for a widow and rarely less than a year for children. The customs associated with mourning include stopping the clocks at the precise time of death and covering all mirrors.

Death and mourning spawned much industry in the way of clothing, jewellery, teapots, ceramics, stationery, photography and everything associated with undertaking. The Brighton General Mourning Warehouse was situated at the Steine.

Illustrated with powerpoint slideshows – plus a rare opportunity to view the short b&w film “Dido’s Lament: Victorian Rituals of Death and Mourning”, screened at Komedia cinema (Brighton) and elsewhere; co-written and produced by the tutor.

SATURDAY 24 September 11am-3pm Ref: CL0664-1C  Fee £30

Enrol: https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-victorian-death-and-mourning-brighton-parent-met-leisure


The Novel as Social History: Compartmental Living -Boarding Houses, Department Stores and other spaces 

Unique course comprising literature, social and cultural history, book club – and lively discussion! Within the pages of the novel we discover more than a story - enthralling ‘other’ information about people, relationships, class and place.

We study the social and cultural history of the novel by exploring background information we are absorbing unwittingly and which is not the main theme, but which gives us a deeper and clearer understanding of period and general minutiae of everyday life

Within every piece of fiction is a wealth of information on culture and social life which can lead us into a deeper understanding of a subject, time or place, period in history, genre, working conditions, habits, style or social trend that we might pursue further, or deepen our knowledge and intensify our interest.

There are two books to read each fortnight and make notes, and you are expected to participate in group discussion in the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. This term’s novels include: “The Ladies Paradise “by Emile Zola, “The Hotel” by Elizabeth Bowen, “The Slaves of Solitude” by Patrick Hamilton, “Bond Street Story” by Norman Collins, “The Boarding House by William Trevor and “A Far Cry from Kensington” by Muriel Spark, Request full reading list from tutor well in advance of the course: SARAH.TOBIAS@gbmc.ac.uk

5 weeks Start 01 October

Fortnightly Saturdays: 02 & 15 October, 05 & 19 November, 03 December

Ref: CL0026-1C 11am-1pm FULL

Ref: CL0699-1C 1.30-3.30pm Fee £71

https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/the-novel-as-social-history-brighton-metleisure 

          

ROTTINGDEAN WHITEWAY CENTRE,

Whiteway Lane, Rottingdean (Brighton) BN2 7HB

Nearby car park on seafront road. Buses stop on seafront outside White Horse Inn, and no. 2 in the High Street

Life on the Homefront 1914-1945: WWI, WWII and In-

between 1920s-30s

We study domestic, working and social life, including women’s occupations, during World War One; followed by the impact, after-effects and life changes during the inter-war years - such as growth of the suburbs and cultural change.

We then examine life for women during World War Two: their occupations and coping with rationing and shortages while at the same time looking after home and family.

10 weeks Tuesday 10.30am-12.30pm start 20 September Fee £87 Half full

https://www.rwc.org.uk/life_on_the_homefront_1914-1945_wwi_wwii_and_in-between_1920s-30s

    Varndean College at The Church of the Holy Cross,  Downsway, Woodingdean (Brighton) BN2 6BD 

(Buses 2, 2A, 22, 22A stop outside, car park across road outside library)

  The Victorian World and the Great Exhibition

The remarkable and influential Victorian period which spanned 64 years and saw many changes and advances, opening up spheres of communication, travel and consumerism, especially after the Great Exhibition of 1851.

6 weeks Monday10.00 – 12.00 - Start 10 October

                                              Code: X545  Fee £75 Concessions available

                                          Enrol by phone only: 01273 546604

                                                

From the comfort of your armchair - or hidden behind it:
The Regency Cook Paul Couchman and History Lecturer and performer Sarah Tobias
present:

          THINGS THAT GO BUMP IN THE NIGHT: A HALLOWEEN HAPPENING

    Spooky poetry and readings and frightening food

You will discover the origins of Samhain (Halloween) the darker part of the year, when the veil of life and death is at its thinnest; hear amusing poetry and discover food for All Hallows Eve which you can also make – ingredients and recipes will be available.

A fun and terrifying afternoon - if you dare!

Sunday 30 October 4pm via zoom

£12.50 (includes booking fee)  Full information and to book on eventbrite: 

https://bit.ly/ThingsThatGoBumpHalloween


From the comfort of your sitting room (or kitchen):

Sarah Tobias, social and cultural historian, and Paul Couchman, food historian, present a short course on


The History of Christmas Customs, Feasting and Food

Medieval, Georgian, Regency, Victorian, Edwardian & Wartime

Sarah tells you the fascinating history and Paul shows you the fabulous feasts and everyday food. Recipes will be available - you can follow Paul as he demonstrates. Ingredients will be available before the course and information and recipes after.

Great fun as well as highly informative - and to get you in festive mood!

4 weeks Wednesday 7-9pm 23 & 30 November, 07 & 14 December

Via zoom. £45 £35 Early Bird offer ends 30 September 

Full information and to book: https://bit.ly/HistoryOfChristmasCourse

Enquiries Paul Couchman <paul.g.couchman@gmail.com>


ROTTINGDEAN WHITEWAY CENTRE,

Whiteway Lane, Rottingdean (Brighton) BN2 7HB

Nearby car park on seafront road. Buses stop on seafront outside White Horse Inn, and no. 2 in the High Street

     "The Whiplash Curve" Art Nouveau and Iconic Geometric Art Deco

Flowing, curvaceous lines of Victorian Art Nouveau, followed by and compared with the interwar geometrical style of iconic Art Deco. 

Art Nouveau was organic, using elements found in nature e.g. flowers, insects and trees. Its style was sensual with whiplash lines, tendrils of hair and sprouting vines, creating an asymmetrical and fanciful appearance. 

In comparison, iconic Art Deco style was geometric, associated with the Jazz Age. It utilised modern technology and innovations, such as plastic, chrome, aluminium and electricity. The smooth,  regular patterns were found in everything from art to fashion, furniture, light fittings, ornaments, glass, ceramics and jewellery. 

Its elegance furnished homes in a new, exciting fashion and hugely influenced cinema: facades, interiors, film sets and  costumes. Both styles were innovative and daring, emerging from earlier influences – Egyptian being a major feature of Art Deco. Illustrated with hundreds of colourful slides.

Saturday 26 November 2022 10.30am-12.45pm

Fee: £12 https://www.rwc.org.uk/art_deco



A CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS!

Fabulous Customs and Traditions of the Festive Season

A feast of festive fun for those interested in the fascinating customs, traditions, myths and legends surrounding Christmas and winter, including the Christmas tree, plum pudding, crackers and cards. You will find lots of entertaining information from this one-day session taught in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere - to get you in the mood for Christmas!

We study early origins, winter solstice and pagan rituals of Roman times, as well as the symbolism of evergreens and cereals, such as holly, ivy, mistletoe, rosemary, wheat, fir and bay, and significance of fire and flame. We also discover who Saint Nicholas was and the origins of Father Christmas and Santa Claus, and find out how traditions came about, such as why sixpence is put into the pudding, the reason candles are lit, why children put up a stocking, and why plum pudding is eaten at Christmas.

We follow the entertainments and customs of Tudor & Elizabethan Christmases when festivities were on a Grand Scale. Georgian Christmases were much quieter and more sedate, although there were also balls and parties. We see how the Victorians and Dickens ‘invented’ the commercial Christmas; look at it in all its glory and discuss its confections, cards, crackers, decorations and games. Finally, a look at Twentieth century Christmas celebrations and how the Festive season was spent from the early century through to the Fifties. Illustrated with slides and video.

SATURDAY 10 DECEMBER 11am-3pm Ref: CL0665-1C Fee £30

https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-customs-myths-and-legends-of-winter-in-the-festive-season-brighton-metleisure

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SPRING 2023

        

All my MET history courses will be here: https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-part-time

All other courses and events here on this blog..

MET Courses are taught at MET Pelham Street unless otherwise stated


Unleashing the Genie: Power and Growth in Late Victorian England (1880-1900)

For those who are interested in the great changes and progress at the end of the nineteenth century, leading into new ways of thought, progressive ideas and action, energy, optimism and innovation, However, there was also stagnation and pessimism, overcrowding and illness.

The Victorian age was a time of contrasts and contradictions. On the one hand, piety, prudery, stiffness and hypocrisy; on the other, free thinking, high living immorality. In-between was the ordinary, hard-working, fun-loving,Victorian, who wanted to enjoy all that was on offer in this fast-moving world which included the cinema and the motor-car. Lots of books, journals and newspapers enlightened a new readership, especially those who benefited from a higher standard of schooling and being able to read.

We study work, domestic life, architecture, technology, leisure and the arts, literature and painting, and advances in medicine and the legacy of men such as Joseph Lister and his work on anaesthesia which changed surgical treatments, allowing more people to survive after an operation. We see how hospitals functioned and the long working day of the nurse and doctor. People could still go to prison for minor offences and life inside was bleak, especially difficult for women.

Illustrated with powerpoint slideshows, period texts, paintings and video clips.

10 weeks Monday 1.30-3.30pm Start 16 January 2023

Ref CL0059-1C Fee £148 (concessions available)

Enrol: https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-late-vicorian-england-brighton-metleisure


In the Shadow of the Century: The Edwardians: (1900-1914)

We study the short period of peace and prosperity before WWI when Edwardians ‘saw themselves at the beginning of a new century of promise’ (A.J. Taylor). The wealthy were extremely rich and the working-class were beginning to voice concerns. This was a time of struggle for women’s rights and the courage of the Suffragettes. An interesting period of social, domestic and working life.

Although the Edwardian period and up to the First World War (1900-1914) was a short one, a great deal happened which often surprises those who study it. Change and modernisation was taking place in all aspects of social and cultural life. Architecture and furnishings were becoming lighter; homes were less cluttered and new technology, aided by electricity was changing daily life.

The wealthy were at the height of their riches and could not survive without an army of servants. Domestic service in large country houses was very isolating and in town no “followers” was the rule. In contrast the poor remained abysmally so - despite reforms.

The Suffrage movement was at its fiercest. The dire Cat and Mouse Act allowed for early release of prisoners so weakened by hunger striking that they were at risk of death….however, there was a sting in the tail of the cat.

Illustrated with powerpoint slideshows, film and documentary.

Tuesday 10 weeks 11am – 1pm Start 17 January

Ref CL0081-1C Fee £148 (concessions available) 

Enrol: https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-the-edwardians-1900-1914-brighton-metleisure


History of Fashion and Society 1700-2000

 This course is for lovers of fashion and British social and cultural history. It examines how social history has inspired fashion, just as clothes have influenced social and cultural history.

We examine how the social and cultural background of  the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries influenced British fashion then and now; focussing on aspects of trendsetting fashion such as the voluminous and extravagant court dresses of the eighteenth century and the dandy; Victorian crinoline, bustle and aestheticism; Edwardian art nouveau, elegant art deco era, wartime recycling, swinging sixties, and subculture of mods, rockers, goths, skinheads and punks. 

 You will learn how to read fashion and how informs us us and what your clothes say about you. We will examine key style developments and designers such as Mary Quant and the "Swinging Sixties". A really exciting and fascinating course that will make you think differently about style, clothing and what you and others wear.

Illustrated with masses of fashion illustrations and powerpoint slideshows.

10 weeks start Tuesday 1.30-3.30pm Start 17 January

Ref CL0276-1C Fee £148 (concessions available)

Enrol: https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/a-history-of-fashion-and-culture-1750-2000-brighton-metleisure


MET course taught at Whitehawk Inn Community Centre: 

 A Grand Tour of Georgian and Regency Indulgence – England (1780-1830)

 For those who are interested in the late Georgian and Regency period and of Brighton and its development. We look at high and low society, including some interesting personalities of the time.

We study different influences in architecture and fashion: neo-classicism, Gothick, Egyptian Revival and Chinoiserie style, including town and country gardens, grounds, public buildings, fashion and manners.

Excesses and vast wealth of a small section of society make us forget the other side of the Regency. Great poverty and hardship for the poor. We consider their conditions and contrast domestic society from aristocracy to residuum, including food, dining, household management, the role of servants and daily life above and below stairs in a Regency town house.

Jane Austen and the Regency go hand in hand. We read some of her charming and witty writings as well as those of other writers and romantic poets.

Illustrated with images, period texts, guide books, maps, powerpoint and video.

 10 weeks Wednesday 1-3pm 18 January 2023  

Ref: CL0618-1C Fee £30 (+Benefits) HALF-FULL

Enrol: https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-grand-tour-of-georgian-and-regency-indulgence-brighton-met


The Novel as Social History: Twentieth Century Living - 1900-1960

Unique course comprising literature, social and cultural history, book club – and lively discussion! Within the pages of the novel we discover more than a story - enthralling ‘other’ information about people, relationships, class and place.

We study the social and cultural history of the novel by exploring background information we are absorbing unwittingly and which is not the main theme, but which gives us a deeper and clearer understanding of period and general minutiae of everyday life

Within every piece of fiction is a wealth of information on culture and social life which can lead us into a deeper understanding of a subject, time or place, period in history, genre, working conditions, habits, style or social trend that we might pursue further, or deepen our knowledge and intensify our interest.

There are two books to read each fortnight and make notes, and you are expected to participate in group discussion in the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. This term’s novels may include: “Antic Hay” by Aldous Huxley,“Of Love and Hunger” by Julian MacLaren-Ross, “The Avenue Goes to War” by R.F. Delderfield, “Some Tame Gazelle” by Barbara Pym and “A Pink Front Door “by Stella Gibbons . Request full reading list from tutor well before the start of the course: SARAH.TOBIAS@gbmc.ac.uk  

5 weeks Start 21 January

Fortnightly Saturdays: 21/01, 04/02, 25/02, 11/03, 15/03.

11am-1pm Ref: CL0030-1C Fee 71 

1.30-3.30pm Ref CL0699-1C Fee 71

https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/the-novel-as-social-history-life-work-leisure-brighton-metleisure


 "The Whiplash Curve" of Art Nouveau and Iconic Geometric Art Deco 

This relaxed Saturday session is for those who are interested in comparing and contrasting the flowing, curvaceous lines of Victorian Art Nouveau with the interwar geometrical style of iconic Art Deco.

Art Nouveau was organic, using elements found in nature, for example flowers, insects and trees. Its style was sensual with whiplash lines, tendrils of hair and sprouting vines, creating an asymmetrical and fanciful appearance.

In comparison, iconic Art Deco style was geometric. It was associated with the Jazz Age, so was also described as "jazzy". It utilised modern technology and innovations, such as plastic, chrome, aluminium and electricity. The smooth, regular patterns were found in and on everything from art to fashion, furniture, light fittings, ornaments, glass, ceramics and jewellery. Its elegance furnished homes in a new, exciting fashion and hugely influenced cinema: facades, interiors, film sets and costume.

Both styles were innovative and daring, emerging from earlier influences – Egyptian being a major feature of Art Deco.

Illustrated with hundreds of colourful slides.  

SATURDAY 18 March  11am-3pm Ref: CL0669-1C Fee £30 

    Enrol: https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-the-whiplash-curve-brighton-metleisure


🌞  SUMMER 2023 ðŸŒž  

Illusion & Reality: Late Victorian Britain 1865-1900

This short course is for those who are interested in late Victorian Britain when technology, electricity, science, medicine, the telephone, and the relentless advance of the human potential continued apace, hurtling toward the end of the Victorian era and into a new Edwardian age offering, what seemed like, limitless powers to change society in every direction.

Improvements were made in housing, sanitation and hygiene. Boys and girls enjoyed the benefits of education, although for the working-class being in a paid job from a very early age was still more important for the family and its precarious finances. Railways created new economic and social relationships and opened up the country. Those in cities and towns could visit the countryside and seaside and rural folk could get a taste of London or other city life.

We also look at the role of women and the agitations of what was to become the Suffragette Movement, as well as the fortunes that could be made by working-class actresses and music hall stars marrying wealthy men. Philanthropic women were socially aware and active. One of the most interesting stories is that of wealthy Baroness Angela Burdett-Coutts, known as “Queen of the poor” who, as well as supporting or being instigator of many good causes, founded Holly Village, the first example of a gated housing development.

6 weeks Monday 1.30-3.30pm Start 17 April

Ref: CL0028-1C Fee £82

Enrol: https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-victorians-brighton-metleisure


Art Deco and the ‘Moderne’ (1918-1939)

For those who love the iconic style of Art Deco and clean lines of Modernism. The smoothly distinctive style dominated all aspects of domestic and cultural life and was notable for its architectural and design features. Iconic and elegant, it was used to furnish homes in a new and exciting fashion, utilizing modern technology and materials, and various electrical devices.

The Decorative Movement, Modernism or ‘moderne’, later described as ‘Art Deco’, was based on classical and other influences, including Egyptian - after the 1922 opening of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922 by Howard Carter and Lord Carnaervon.

The distinctive iconic style of space, light and speed, vibrant with colour, its modern designs full of sharp patterns, was also described as "jazzy" and it utilised modern technology and innovations such as plastic, chrome, aluminium and electricity. Smooth lines and geometric patterns featured on architecture, advertising, fashion, jewellery, furniture, glass, ceramics, lighting, metalware, technology and cinema.

The smoothly distinctive ‘Modernist’ style dominated all aspects of domestic and cultural life and was notable for its architectural and design features. The elegant style was used to furnish homes in a new and exciting fashion.

Illustrated with colourful powerpoint slideshows and illustrations.  

8 weeks Tuesday 3-5pm Start 18 April

Ref: CL0068-1C Fee £110

Enrol: https://www.gbmc.ac.uk/world-of-iconic-art-deco-brighton-metleisure


MET course taught at Whitehawk Inn Community Centre: 

 The Shaping of Early Victorian Britain (1837-1850) 

A course for lovers of social and cultural history during the early Victorian era, which was a time of change and development, and the effects of the Industrial Revolution.

Much was happening in this period including reforms and a different way of thinking which brought about Factory Acts and observation of the needs of the poor. Working conditions were harsh and homes for the poor insanitary.

The family was central to peaceful harmony and the new middle-class norm was for separate spheres: women in the domestic sphere focussing on husband, family care and “good works”, while men were to be in the public sphere, including politics and commerce. Legally, women had almost no rights and were the property of their husbands.

We look at architecture and art, agricultural and urban developments, manufacturing and shops, industry and the arts, wealth and poverty, class structure and working conditions, as well as the lives of some of the people and characters that made up the social and cultural orb of early Victorian life.

Illustrated with powerpoint slideshows ..

10 weeks Wednesday 1-3pm Start 19 April Fee £30 (£20 Benefits) HALF-FULL

Enrolhttps://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-the-shaping-of-early-victorian-britain-met-leisure


 Powerful Women: innovative females who made vital changes1800s-20

This session is an intriguing insight for those who are interested in women’s studies. It is also for anyone who is curious about the pioneers who made crucially important - generally unnoticed - changes to our history.

This is a brief introduction to a few of the numerous women who had a huge impact in many spheres and who have gone largely unnoticed. There were women scientists, writers, surgeons, physicians, inventors, social reformers, law-changers such as Josephine Butler with the repeal of the Contagious Diseases Act and Caroline Norton who fought hard for the Married Women’s Property Act. Mathematician Ada Lovelace (below), designed the worlds first computer. During WWI female surgeons used pioneering methods and in WWII codebreakers at Bletchley Park were estimated to help shorten the war by two years,

Others pioneers we celebrate include fossil collector and palaeontologist ,Mary Anning; social theorist and possibly the first sociologist, Harriet Martineau, and those with a Brighton connection, such as Dr Louisa Martindale who helped set up the The New Sussex Hospital for Women and Clementina Black who campaigned – among other things – for better wages for low paid workers .   Illustrated with powerpoint slideshows.  

11am-2pm SATURDAY 22 APRIL  Ref: CL0668-1C Fee £23

Enrolhttps://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-powerful-women-metleisure


 Summer in the City: exploring Brighton’s unique history (including 3 field trips)

If you are interested in the distinctive history of Brighton and how it evolved, and enjoy walking through the city and discovering places you might not know, then you will enjoy this course comprising of two classroom sessions and three field trips.

We study the fascinating history of Brighton in two classroom sessions with a brief historical overview and looking at early maps. This will be followed by three field trips, getting to know our unique city, discovering lots of hidden gems and understanding how Brighton evolved from a small Georgian fishing town to the vibrant seaside resort of today.

Your tutor will guide you to further places of interest so that you can stroll around and familiarise yourself during summer, discovering additional hidden gems.

Be prepared to walk on each field trip for almost two hours; to wear suitable clothing for all weather and to bring water if it is hot.

Classroom sessions are illustrated with images, maps and powerpoint slides. 

 5 weeks Saturday Start 11am-1pm Start 29 April  

Ref: CL0027-1C Fee £71

Enrolhttps://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-exploring-brightons-history-metleisure


 The Novel as Social History: Books for Summer Reading 

If you love books, reading, social and cultural history, and lots of lively discussion in a relaxed, informal atmosphere then this one-day course is definitely for you.

This is a unique one-day study session comprising literature and social and cultural history. Within the pages of the novel we discover more than a story - enthralling ‘other’ information about people, relationships, class and place.

We discuss books for summer reading from a selection of four novels with lots of background social and cultural history to be read before class (whole or part), plus further recommendations.

A different, unusual, exciting way of reading and learning in a friendly, relaxed group. We also view extracts of one of the novels that was made into film.

You will be expected to participate in group discussion in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Novels will include “The Enchanted April” By Elizabeth von Arnim. Please request the reading list well in advance from the tutor : SARAH.TOBIAS@gbmc.ac.uk.

SATURDAY 10 JUNE 11am-3pm  

Ref: CL0067-1C Fee £30

Enrolhttps://www.gbmc.ac.uk/history-summer-reading-met-leisure

------------------------------------------------------------------

 An exciting and unusual event!

"Really enjoyable, thanks for a lovely day" - same event 12 July 2022

.
Study day at the West Pier Centre, Brighton (Lower prom by sea)
.
Patrick Hamilton’s “The West Pier” 
.
We study social, cultural, local and West Pier history, characters and events within Patrick Hamilton’s excellent novel. 
.
Morning session will be followed by a short seafront tour. After our afternoon session we will go along the prom to the i360 West Beach restaurant for a cocktail or cup of tea or coffee. Cocktails feature lots in the novel! Illustrated with powerpoint slideshow.
.
You'll be greeted with tea, coffee or cold drink and biscuits. Bring a packed lunch to eat on beach/forecourt. Several nearby cafes. 
.
Please read the short novel before the session.
.
Lecturer and guide is ex-West Pier tour guide  Fee £28 (+ booking fee)

Places are limited to twelve - early booking essential
April/May 2023 date will be announced here
.
Book via EventBrite (booking fee applies) £29.76
 Enq: 01273 321499/info@westpier.co.uk


BRIGHTON ROCK ON THE WEST PIER

Another exciting and unusual study day at the West Pier Centre

We study social, cultural, local and seaside pier history, characters and events within Graham Greene’s novel, set a decade on from Patrick Hamilton’s West Pier. (In the 1930s it cost 4d -about 2p- to hire a beach deckchair, in 2022 it is £4)!

Summer date TBA


<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Sarah Tobias MA, BA Hons, Dip Eur Hum

(Former associate tutor at Sussex University)
Entertaining lecturer in social, cultural and local (Brighton, Sussex, UK) history.
Contact me for talks/guided walks/visits for groups, clubs, societies.
Current list of 30+ topics
Also contact me for poetry readings and narrations.
More information about me, my subjects, research and contact:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-tobias-0318943a?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile 

****************************************************************************************
Courses -Venue Addresses, transport and refreshments
Brighton Metropolitan College MET (formerly City College)
Pelham Street, Brighton BN1 4FA
Location:
Behind York Place & London Road, turn up Cheapside – Aldi supermarket on corner. Or, turn left in Trafalgar St walking down from Station.
Transport & Parking:
Lots of buses nearby.
Nearby car park, about 5 minutes walk.
Railway station few minutes walk
Refreshments and further information:
College canteen. Tea and coffee bar on balcony of Main Building. Vending machine. 
Coffee shops, small cafés and public houses in nearby London Road 
London Road and Trafalgar Street: many shops, some banks and supermarkets

Whitehawk Inn Community Centre
Whitehawk Road Brighton, BN2 3NS
Transport & Parking:
Buses stop nearby and some outside venue
Metered street car parking
Refreshments:
Café and garden area
Further information:
Shops, Co-op, public library in same road.
Few minutes walk to sea, beach and Marina or East Brighton Park

Holy Cross Church Hall, Woodingdean
Warren Road, Brighton, BN2 6ND
Transport & Parking:
Car park outside Library and Community Centre over the road, opposite church hall. Bus nos 2, 22, 22A stop nearby.
Refreshments:
Tea-making facilities in hall. Small cafes nearby. Downs Hotel almost next door serves tea, coffee and refreshments at bar and has outside area. 
Further information:
Woodingdean public library over the road. Shops, Co-op, dry cleaners nearby    

Rottingdean Whiteway Centre
Whiteway Lane, Rottingdean, Brighton, BN2 7HB
Transport & Parking:
Very small car park outside, some nearby parking in side streets, car parks on main sea road (few mins walk).  Bus nos 2, 22, 22A stop nearby, Bus nos 12, 12A, 12X, 27C, 47 stop by the White Horse Hotel on the seafront - short walk.
Refreshments:
Tea-making facilities in hall. Small cafes nearby and in Museum tea garden next door during summer.
Further information:
Rottingdean public library and museum next door (opening times vary). Shops and Co-op in the High Street. Post office. Several historic public houses, village pond, windmill (not generally open), Grade II listed 1300s St Margaret's Church, accessible downland and a few minutes from the sea and beach. 
 
Preston Manor
Preston Drove, Brighton BN1 6SD
Location:
Situated end of Preston Park.
Transport & Parking:
Buses and rail nearby
Free parking outside and in adjacent street.
Refreshments:
No cafe. Refreshments provided by staff 
Delicatessen cafe and public houses opposite and in Preston Drove. Chalet restaurant in park.

The Regency Town House
13 Brunswick Square, Hove, BN3 1EH
Transport & Parking:
Buses stop at the top of Brunswick square in Western Road
Very limited parking. 
Refreshments:
Refreshments provided  
Lots of shops and cafes in Western Road. Seafront is about 2 minutes walk

The West Pier Centre
103-105 King's Road Arches, Brighton, BN1 2FN 
Transport & Parking:
Nearby car parks - Regency Square. Buses stop in Western Road and walk down.  
Refreshments:
Wine or cool drink provided  
Situated on the lower prom and seafront. Various shops and lots of cafes and restaurants. Hotels on upper level over the road. Western Road and popular streets of Brighton with many shops and cafes are 10-20 minutes walk

Sussex University
Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9RH
Location:
Campus located in the South Downs National Park
Transport & Parking:
Buses and rail nearby into town and elsewhere
Car parks
Refreshments:
Cafes and restaurants on campus.                                                                                                            
Co-op, pharmacy, books and stationery shops