Course overview

As built, canals linked towns and cities with the remote corners of the English countryside. Built largely to carry coal to fuel the Industrial Revelation, they are used today for pleasure purposes. Canals offer the opportunity to improve health and wellbeing, whether walking along the towpath or travelling along in a barge. Come and join this illustrated course where you will develop your historical / technical skills by finding and exploring a number of sources about the canals. Your tutor will guide you towards sources which provide information on the physical design of your local canal, the industry it was built to serve and the individuals who worked tirelessly to make a living. There will be a study of the Trent & Mersey, Peak Forest and Somersetshire Coal Canals, together with a review of the impact on the canals of the Napoleonic War. The course will look at some of the features of canals, such as Bridges, Tunnels, Aqueducts, Reservoirs, Gauging Docks, Weighing Machines, Gauging Stations and Winding Holes. This course is suitable for learners with a previous knowledge of the subject To note down key points, it is suggested that you bring a notebook.

Course description

This course is idea for those who want to spend time learning something new from the comfort of their own home. There will be a range of different teaching and learning methods to encourage you to be actively involved in your learning.You will be invited to undertake work to support your course outside the class and in particular there will be an assignment that will involve a study of your local canal to see how it could be developed and increase income to fund its upkeep. Suggestions on areas to research will be given.

All learners will be encouraged to report back their findings to the rest of the class. You may use photographs if you have any, otherwise the tutor will draw examples from his extensive collection. You will be encourage to be actively involved in supporting your local canal, either through the Canal and River Trust or through a local group if your local canal is being restored. This will strengthen connections to the wider community. Sessions will be delivered through PowerPoint presentation, discussion and debate, with students encouraged to contribute and enjoy the course. A range of handouts will be provided on Canvas. No pre reading is required, but research on the subject on the internet or in the library may be helpful. Recommended books:- The Canals of Britain: The Comprehensive Guide by Stuart Fisher. Adlard Coles Nautical 2017. Narrow Boat by LTC Rolt. The History Press Ltd 2009. Emma Smith Maiden’s Trip – A Wartime Adventure on the Grand Union Canal. Bloomsbury Publishing. Reprinted 2011.

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 alternative financial help to access them then let us know.

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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