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Hobbies & Interests

People painting and being creative

Our Hobbies & Interests courses are designed for anyone looking to try something new, develop existing kills, build confidence and enjoy learning in a supportive, fun and engaging group setting.

Cooking courses Creative courses Health & Wellbeing courses
 
Click the drop down boxes below for more information:

From September 2026, learner enrolments will need to meet the current eligibility criteria supplied by Tees Valley Combined Authority in terms of postcode and priority will be given to individuals who have had limited opportunities to access formal learning or qualifications.

Please note, the above criteria applies to those living in Tees Valley and Darlington only, it does not apply to learners living in North Yorkshire.

If unsure, please contact us.

Upcoming courses

  • Sewing Made Simple - Every Thursday, 12.30am-2.30am, from 10th Sept at Darlington Library (6 week course)
  • Cooking on a Budget - Every Tuesday, 1pm-3pm, from 22nd Sept at The Edge Centre (5 week course)
  • Grow Learn Thrive - Community Allotment - 9.30am-11:30am, from 23rd Sep at Bellburn Lane Allotments (9 week course)
  • Cooking on a Budget - Every Tuesday, 10am-12pm, from 6th Oct at McNay Street Family Hub (4 week course)
  • Round the World Cooking - Every Tuesday, 10am-12pm, from 10th Nov at McNay Street Family Hub (5 week course)

Click the drop down boxes below for more information:

Cooking courses

Discover new flavours, build confidence in the kitchen, and learn practical cooking skills with our fun, hands-on cooking courses.

Course summary

Learn how to create simple, tasty, and affordable meals in this practical cooking course. Explore ways to save money on food, including comparing prices, making the most of supermarket offers, and planning budget-friendly meals. You'll also prepare a variety of recipes, such as homemade pizzas, quiche, and soup.

This hands-on course is taught in person, giving you the opportunity to develop your cooking skills and gain confidence in the kitchen.

No previous cooking experience is required.

Who is this course for?

This course is for adults aged 19 and over who would like to learn how to cook simple, affordable meals and make the most of their food budget. It is suitable for beginners and anyone looking to build their confidence in the kitchen while learning practical cooking skills.

Entry requirements

  • Aged 19+
  • Have the right to live and work in the UK
  • Must live in the Darlington, Tees Valley (eligibility criteria applies), North Yorkshire or non devolved local authority areas

What is the curriculum intent of this course?

This course aims to develop your confidence in preparing healthy, delicious, and affordable meals while making the most of your food budget. You will learn practical cooking skills, explore meal planning techniques, and discover money-saving tips to help reduce food costs, minimise waste, and support a healthy lifestyle.

What will the course cover?

Understanding food costs and comparing prices to get the best value for money.

  • Understanding food costs and comparing prices to get the best value for money.
  • Learning money-saving tips, supermarket shopping strategies, and meal planning techniques.
  • Preparing a range of affordable homemade dishes, including pizzas, breads, quiches, and sauces.
  • Making healthy, budget-friendly meals such as soups and other everyday family favourites.

Plus much more!

What could I do when I have finished this course?

You could continue onto one of our many other courses, such as Distance Learning or CPD courses that will be made available to you.

When and where will the course take place?

See upcoming courses or contact us to register your interest.

What do I need to bring with me?

You do not need to bring anything with you. All ingredients, equipment, and learning materials will be provided. Just come along with a willingness to learn new cooking skills, discover money-saving tips, and enjoy preparing delicious meals on a budget.

How much will the course cost?

This course is free of charge (eligibility criteria applies).

What do I do next?

Apply for the​ course

If you require help with the form please contact us on 01325 405601, 07932 869325 or l&[email protected]. 

Course summary

Take your taste buds on a journey around the world! This fun and practical cooking course will introduce you to a variety of dishes, flavours, and cooking traditions from different countries and cultures. You'll learn useful cooking skills, explore new ingredients, and gain the confidence to recreate international meals at home.

Working in a friendly and supportive environment, you'll prepare a range of delicious dishes while discovering the stories and influences behind cuisines from around the globe.

No previous cooking experience is required. Just bring your enthusiasm, a willingness to try new foods, and an appetite for learning.

Who is the course for?

This course is for adults aged 19 and over who enjoy cooking or would like to learn how to prepare dishes from around the world.

It is suitable for beginners and anyone interested in exploring different cuisines, developing practical cooking skills, and gaining confidence in the kitchen.

No previous cooking experience is required.

Entry requirements

  • Aged 19+
  • Have the right to live and work in the UK
  • Must live in the Darlington, Tees Valley (eligibility criteria applies), North Yorkshire or non devolved local authority areas

What is the curriculum intent of this course?

This course aims to develop your confidence and practical cooking skills through the preparation of a variety of dishes from around the world. You will explore different cuisines, ingredients, and cooking techniques, gaining the knowledge and confidence to recreate international meals at home while broadening your understanding of global food cultures.

What will the course cover?

  • Explore dishes from a range of countries and identify the ingredients and flavours used in different cuisines.
  • Develop your cooking skills and build confidence in preparing a variety of international dishes.
  • Increase your knowledge of healthy eating and learn how to adapt recipes from around the world to suit different dietary needs.
  • Understand the cost of preparing meals and discover ways to save money by reducing food waste and making the most of affordable ingredients.

Plus much more!

What could I do when I have finished this course?

You could continue onto one of our many other courses, such as Distance Learning or CPD courses that will be made available to you.

When and where will the course take place?

See upcoming courses or contact us to register your interest.

What do I need to bring with me?

You do not need to bring anything with you. All ingredients, equipment, and learning materials will be provided. Just come along with a willingness to try new foods, learn new cooking skills, and enjoy exploring flavours and recipes from around the world in a friendly and supportive environment.

How much will the course cost?

This course is free of charge (eligibility criteria applies).

What do I do next?

Apply for the​ course

If you require help with the form please contact us on 01325 405601, 07932 869325 or l&[email protected]. 

Creative courses

Try something creative, learn new skills, and enjoy making something you can be proud of with our hands-on creative courses.

Course summary

Unleash your creativity through a variety of fun and engaging craft projects. Explore different materials, tools, and techniques while creating handmade decorations, gifts, keepsakes, and other unique craft items.

Working in a friendly and supportive environment, you'll develop practical crafting skills, build confidence, and discover new ways to express your creativity. Each session offers opportunities to learn, experiment, and produce projects you can take home and enjoy.

No previous experience is required, making this course ideal for beginners as well as those looking to develop their existing craft skills and try new creative techniques.

Who is this course for?

This course is for adults aged 19 and over who enjoy being creative and would like to learn new crafting skills. It is suitable for beginners and anyone interested in exploring different arts and crafts activities, developing their creativity, and building confidence in a friendly and supportive environment. No previous experience is required.

What entry requirements do I need to start the course?

  • Aged 19+
  • Have the right to live and work in the UK
  • Must live in the Darlington, Tees Valley (eligibility criteria applies), North Yorkshire or non devolved local authority areas

What is the curriculum intent of this course?

This course aims to develop your creative skills, confidence, and practical crafting abilities through a range of arts and crafts projects. You will explore different materials, techniques, and creative processes while designing and making unique handmade items. The course encourages creativity, self-expression, problem-solving, and the development of skills that can be used for personal enjoyment, wellbeing, and further learning.

What will the course cover? 

  • A variety of arts and crafts projects
  • Different craft techniques, materials, and tools
  • Creative design and making skills
  • Handmade decorations, gifts, and keepsakes
  • Opportunities to develop confidence, creativity, and practical skills

Plus much more!

What could I do when I have finished this course?

After this course has finished you may like to join in with other adult learning courses, including Functional Skills English, Maths or ICT. You will be given information about other courses and guidance during this course.

When and where will the course take place?

See upcoming courses or contact us to register your interest.

What do I need to bring with me?

You do not need to bring anything with you. All materials and equipment will be provided. Just come along with a willingness to try something new, have fun, and develop your creative skills.

How much will the course cost?

This course is free of charge (eligibility criteria applies).

What do I do next?

Apply for the​ course

If you require help with the form please contact us on 01325 405601, 07932 869325 or l&[email protected].

Course summary

Discover the joy of writing in this friendly and supportive Creative Writing course. Explore different styles of writing, including stories, poetry, memoirs, and descriptive writing, while developing your creativity and self-expression.

Through fun writing activities and practical exercises, you'll build confidence in your writing skills, share ideas with others, and learn techniques to bring your words to life.

No previous writing experience is required, making this course perfect for beginners and anyone looking to develop their creative talents.

Who is the course for?

This course is for adults aged 19 and over who enjoy writing or would like to explore their creative side through words.
It is suitable for beginners and anyone interested in developing their writing skills, expressing their ideas, and building confidence in a supportive and encouraging environment. 
No previous writing experience is required.

Entry requirements

  • Aged 19+
  • Have the right to live and work in the UK
  • Must live in the Darlington, Tees Valley (eligibility criteria applies), North Yorkshire or non devolved local authority areas

What is the curriculum intent of this course?

This course aims to build your confidence and creativity through a range of enjoyable writing activities. You will explore different styles of creative writing, develop your own unique voice, and learn techniques to help you express your ideas effectively through stories, poetry, memoirs, and other written forms.

No previous experience is required, and the course is designed to support you in developing your skills in a friendly and encouraging environment.

What will the course cover?

  • Explore techniques to make your writing more engaging and effective.
  • Take part in creative writing exercises to generate ideas and inspiration.
  • Experiment with different forms of creative writing, including stories, poetry, and descriptive writing.
  • Write and develop your own creative pieces while building confidence in your writing skills.

Plus much more!

What could I do when I have finished this course?

You could continue onto one of our many other courses, such as Distance Learning or CPD courses that will be made available to you.

When and where will this course take place?

See upcoming courses or contact us to register your interest.

What do I need to bring with me?

You will not need to bring anything, simply roll your sleeves up and try something new or develop an existing skill.

How much will the course cost?

This course is free of charge.

What do I do next?

Apply for the​ course

If you require help with the form please contact us on 01325 405601, 07932 869325 or l&[email protected]. 

Course summary

Get creative and celebrate the festive season through a variety of fun arts and crafts projects. Learn new techniques and create seasonal decorations, handmade gifts and unique keepsakes using a range of materials and craft methods.

Working in a friendly and supportive environment, you'll develop new skills, explore different creative techniques, and enjoy making a range of unique handmade projects.

No previous experience is required, making this course ideal for beginners and anyone looking to try something new.

Who is the course for?

This course is for adults aged 19+ who enjoy arts and crafts or would like to explore their creative side through seasonal projects.

It is suitable for beginners and anyone interested in learning new craft techniques, creating handmade decorations and gifts, and building confidence in a friendly and supportive environment.

No previous experience is required.

Entry requirements

  • Aged 19+
  • Have the right to live and work in the UK
  • Must live in the Darlington, Tees Valley (eligibility criteria applies), North Yorkshire or non devolved local authority areas

What is the curriculum intent of this course?

This course aims to develop your creative skills and confidence through the design and creation of seasonal arts and crafts projects. You will explore a range of techniques, materials, and ideas while producing unique handmade items inspired by different times of the year.

What will the course cover?

  • A variety of arts and crafts projects
  • Different craft techniques, materials, and tools
  • Creative design and making skills
  • Handmade decorations, gifts, and keepsakes
  • Opportunities to develop confidence, creativity, and practical skills

Plus much more!

What could I do when I have finished this course?

You could continue onto one of our many other courses, such as Distance Learning or CPD courses that will be made available to you.

When and where will the course take place?

See upcoming courses or contact us to register your interest.

What do I need to bring with me?

You will not need to bring anything, simply roll your sleeves up and try something new or develop an existing skill.

How much will the course cost?

This course is free of charge.

What do I do next?

Apply for the​ course

If you require help with the form please contact us on 01325 405601, 07932 869325 or l&[email protected]. 

Course summary

Learn the basics of sewing in this friendly and practical course. You'll develop essential sewing skills, learn how to use sewing equipment safely, and create a range of simple projects while building confidence in your abilities.

Whether you'd like to mend and alter clothing, make handmade gifts, or start a new hobby, this course will help you develop useful techniques and creative skills.

No previous sewing experience is required, making it ideal for beginners and those looking to refresh their skills.

Who is the course for?

This course is for adults aged 19 and over who would like to learn basic sewing skills or build confidence in their sewing abilities.
It is suitable for beginners and anyone interested in repairing clothes, making simple projects, developing a new hobby, or learning practical skills in a friendly and supportive environment.
No previous sewing experience is required.

Entry requirements

  • Aged 19+
  • Have the right to live and work in the UK
  • Must live in the Darlington, Tees Valley (eligibility criteria applies), North Yorkshire or non devolved local authority areas

What is the curriculum intent of this course?

This course aims to develop your confidence and practical sewing skills in a fun and supportive environment. You will learn the basics of sewing, explore a range of simple techniques, and create your own projects while building the skills needed to continue sewing independently.

What will the course cover?

  • Basic sewing techniques
  • Use of sewing machines, overlockers, and digital sewing machines
  • Creating simple items, such as bunting and cushion covers
  • Developing confidence in sewing skills and completing simple sewing projects independently

Plus much more!

What could I do when I have finished this course?

You could continue onto one of our many other courses, such as Distance Learning or CPD courses that will be made available to you.

When and where will this course take place?

See upcoming courses or contact us to register your interest.

What do I need to bring with me?

You do not need to bring anything with you. All materials and equipment will be provided. Just come along with a willingness to try something new, have fun, and develop your skills.

How much will the course cost?

This course is free of charge (eligibility criteria applies).

What do I do next?

Apply for the course

If you require help with the form please contact us on 01325 405601, 07932 869325 or l&[email protected]. 

Course summary

Build on your existing sewing skills in this practical and creative Intermediate Sewing course. You'll learn more advanced techniques, improve your accuracy and confidence, and work on a range of sewing projects to develop your skills further.

This hands-on course will help you expand your knowledge of sewing equipment, garment construction, alterations, and finishing techniques. Working in a supportive environment, you'll have the opportunity to take on more challenging projects and create high-quality handmade items.

This course is ideal for learners who already have basic sewing skills and are ready to progress to the next level.

Who is the course for?

This course is for adults aged 19 and over who already have basic sewing skills and would like to develop their knowledge further.

It is suitable for learners who can use a sewing machine and are ready to take on more detailed projects, learn new techniques, and improve the quality and finish of their work.

Whether you want to make your own garments, tackle more advanced sewing projects, or build confidence in your sewing abilities, this course provides the opportunity to develop your skills in a friendly and supportive environment.

Entry requirements

  • Aged 19+
  • Have the right to live and work in the UK
  • Must live in the Darlington, Tees Valley (eligibility criteria applies), North Yorkshire or non devolved local authority areas.

What is the curriculum intent of this course?

This course aims to build on existing sewing knowledge and develop your confidence in using a range of sewing techniques and equipment. You will enhance your practical skills through more detailed projects, improve the quality and finish of your work, and gain the confidence to tackle a wider variety of sewing projects independently.

What will the course cover?

  • Intermediate sewing techniques
  • Confident use of sewing machines, overlockers, and digital sewing machines
  • Creating more detailed projects, such as garments, home furnishings, and accessories
  • Building independence in planning, constructing, and completing sewing projects using a range of fabrics and techniques

Plus much more!

What could I do when I have finished this course?

You could continue onto one of our many other courses, such as Distance Learning or CPD courses that will be made available to you.

When and where will this course take place?

See upcoming courses or contact us to register your interest.

How much will the course cost?

This course is free of charge.

What do I do next?

Apply for the course

If you require help with the form please contact us on 01325 405601, 07932 869325 or l&[email protected]. 

Health & Wellbeing courses

Improve your health and wellbeing, build confidence, and learn simple ways to feel happier, healthier, and more connected.

Course summary

Learn essential first aid skills and gain the confidence to respond effectively in emergency situations. This practical course covers a range of common first aid scenarios, helping you understand how to assess an incident, provide basic treatment, and support someone until professional help arrives.

Through hands-on activities and demonstrations, you'll develop the knowledge and skills needed to deal with everyday emergencies safely and confidently. Whether for work, family life, or personal interest, this course provides valuable life skills that could make a difference in an emergency.

No previous first aid experience is required.

Who is this course for?

This course is for adults aged 19 and over who would like to learn essential first aid skills and gain confidence in responding to emergency situations.

It is suitable for beginners and anyone interested in improving their knowledge of first aid for work, home, family life, volunteering, or personal development.

The course is ideal for anyone who wants to learn practical, potentially life-saving skills and understand how to provide assistance safely and effectively in an emergency.

No previous first aid experience is required.

What entry requirements do I need to start the course?

  • Aged 19+
  • Have the right to live and work in the UK
  • Must live in the Darlington, Tees Valley (eligibility criteria applies), North Yorkshire or non devolved local authority areas

What is the curriculum intent of this course?

This course aims to develop your knowledge, skills, and confidence in basic first aid and emergency response. You will learn practical techniques to help create and maintain a safer home environment, understand how to respond appropriately in a range of emergency situations, and gain the confidence to provide assistance when it is needed.

The course also supports personal development by encouraging learners to build valuable life skills and progress to further learning opportunities.

What will the course cover?

The course will cover a range of practical first aid skills and safety awareness topics, including:

  • Recognising and responding to a variety of common illnesses, injuries, and emergency situations.
  • Learning essential first aid techniques, including CPR and dealing with an unresponsive casualty.
  • Understanding how to provide safe and effective assistance until professional help arrives.
  • Exploring ways to create and maintain a safe environment at home, work, and in the community.

Plus much more!

What could I do when I have finished this course?

After this course has finished you may like to join in with other adult learning courses, including Functional Skills English, Maths or ICT. You will be given information about other courses and guidance during this course.

When and where will this course take place?

See upcoming courses or contact us to register your interest.

What do I need to bring with me?

Please bring:

  • A notepad and pen, or a digital device, for taking notes.
  • A folder or file to keep any course handouts and learning materials.
  • A willingness to learn new skills and take part in practical first aid activities.

How much will the course cost?

This course is free of charge (eligibility criteria applies).

What do I do next?

Apply for the​ course

If you require help with the form please contact us on 01325 405601, 07932 869325 or l&[email protected].

Course summary

Discover simple ways to improve your health, wellbeing, and overall happiness in this engaging and supportive course. You'll explore topics such as healthy lifestyle choices, stress management, positive thinking, self-care, and ways to build confidence and resilience.

Through practical activities, discussions, and helpful tips, you'll learn strategies to support your physical and mental wellbeing and make positive changes in your everyday life. This course provides a friendly environment where you can develop new skills, meet others, and focus on improving your overall wellbeing.

No previous experience is required.

Who is this course for?

This course is for adults aged 19 and over who would like to improve their health, wellbeing, and overall happiness. It is suitable for anyone looking to develop positive lifestyle habits, manage stress more effectively, build confidence, and learn practical ways to support their mental and physical wellbeing.

The course is ideal for anyone who wants to make positive changes, improve.

No previous experience is required.

Entry requirements:

  • Aged 19+
  • Have the right to live and work in the UK
  • Must live in the Darlington, Tees Valley (eligibility criteria applies), North Yorkshire or non devolved local authority areas

What is the curriculum intent of this course?

This course aims to support learners in developing the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to improve their health, wellbeing, and overall happiness. Through a range of practical activities and discussions, learners will explore ways to build positive habits, improve self-esteem, support family wellbeing, and make informed lifestyle choices.

The course also encourages personal development, confidence building, and progression to further learning opportunities.

What will the course cover?

Each week, we will explore different topics and activities designed to support your health, wellbeing, and personal development, including:

  • Mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
  • Understanding and managing stress.
  • Building self-esteem, confidence, and resilience.
  • Exploring positive wellbeing strategies for individuals and families.
  • Meditation, gratitude, and positive thinking practices.
  • Using positive affirmations and other tools to support emotional wellbeing.

By the end of the course, you will have developed practical strategies to support a healthier, happier, and more positive lifestyle.

What could I do when I have finished this course?

After this course has finished you may like to join in with other adult learning courses, including Functional Skills English, Maths or ICT. You will be given information about other courses and guidance during this course.

When and where will this course take place?

See upcoming courses or contact us to register your interest.

What do I need to bring with me?

Please bring:

  • A notepad and pen, or a digital device, for taking notes.
  • A folder or file to keep any course handouts and learning materials.
  • An open mind and a willingness to take part in discussions and wellbeing activities.

How much will the course cost?

This course is free of charge (eligibility criteria applies).

What do I do next?

Apply for the​ course

If you require help with the form please contact us on 01325 405601, 07932 869325 or l&[email protected].

Course summary

Grow your gardening skills, confidence, and wellbeing in a friendly outdoor setting. Learn how to grow and care for vegetables, understand seasonal planting, and gain practical allotment experience while connecting with nature and your local community.

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for anyone aged 19+ interested in gardening, growing their own food, and improving their wellbeing through outdoor learning.

No previous gardening experience is required.

Whether you're looking to learn new skills, meet new people, or enjoy spending time outdoors, this course offers a welcoming and supportive environment for all.

Entry requirements

  • Aged 19+
  • Have the right to live and work in the UK
  • Must live in the Darlington, Tees Valley (eligibility criteria applies), North Yorkshire or non devolved local authority areas

What is the curriculum intent of this course?

This course aims to improve learners' confidence, wellbeing, and practical gardening skills through hands-on outdoor learning. Learners will develop knowledge of growing vegetables, seasonal planting, and sustainable gardening while connecting with nature and their local community.

What will the course cover?

·        Learning how to grow and care for a variety of fruits and vegetables.

·        Developing practical gardening skills, including sowing, planting, watering, and maintenance.

·        Exploring sustainable growing methods and environmentally friendly gardening practices.

·        Building confidence, wellbeing, and community connections through outdoor learning.

Plus much more!

What could I do when I have finished this course?

You could continue onto one of our many other courses, such as Distance Learning or CPD courses that will be made available to you.

When and where will the course take place?

See upcoming courses or contact us to register your interest.

What do I need to bring with me?

All gardening tools and equipment will be provided however, we would recommend you bring the below:

·        Suitable outdoor clothing and footwear.

·        A drink and any snacks you may need.

·        A notebook and pen if you would like to take notes (optional).

How much will the course cost?

This course is free of charge (eligibility criteria applies).

What do I do next?

Apply for the​ course

If you require help with the form please contact us on 01325 405601, 07932 869325 or l&[email protected]. 

Need more information?

If you have any queries about our creative, hobbies and daily living courses, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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