Course overview

We all know that St Nicholas is the “real name” for Santa, but who was he, and how did he get associated with Christmas? We’ll take a look at the history of the Saint (and what else he was the saint of!), what other places he appears other than down your chimney, and various other characters who have been known to turn up and interact with small children in winter.

Course description

A ramble through the various myths and history associated with Father Christmas, from the original Greek Bishop and Saint, to various medieval links with other customs, the beings in other countries who carry out similar roles, up to the more modern traditions like dressing him in red, and tracking his flight on the NORAD website. How has he been used to promote various other means of spending your money? Speaking of the flight, what’s up with those (female) reindeer? And what pulls the sleigh in Australia, in the middle of summer?

This may well be a comforting nostalgic journey through traditions you already know and love (and why not?) or maybe you will learn something new.

(Concerned parents may be reassured to know that I will not at any point suggest to any children who might overhear that Father Christmas is not real!)

What financial support is available?

We don't want anything to stand in your way when it comes to bringing Adult learning within reach so if you need anything to support you to achieve your goals then speak to one of our education experts during your enrolment journey. Most of our courses are government funded but if you don't qualify or need.

What other support is available?

All of our digital content, teaching and learning activities and assessments are designed to be accessible so if you need any additional support you can discuss this with the education experts during your enrolment journey and we will do all we can to make sure you have optimal access.

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