Ferguslie Learning Centre - May Starts 2025

INFO
SESSIONS
12, 13, 14,
19, 20, 21
AUGUST
2025
a friendly, community
environment.

The Ferguslie Learning Centre provides certificated
learning opportunities at beginner’s level within a friendly,
community environment.
This Ferguslie Learning programme is designed to assist adult learners build upon their
Employability and Life skills using a blended learning approach. The Centre is based in the heart
of Ferguslie and provides a warm welcoming environment for adults returning to learning.
Centre Timetable
Monday
Discover the Art of Photography
SCQF Level 4
25 August 2025
9.30am – 12 noon
14 Weeks
Please bring along
your own camera or
mobile phone to take
pictures.
Are you passionate
about photography and eager to
capture the beauty of different places?
Join our ”Understanding Photography” and “Photographing
Places” course, taking your skills to the next level! Unlock your
creative potential and start capturing the world around you.
Enrol today and embark on a visual journey like no other!
Who should enrol?
Anyone with an interest in photography or creative digital
media.
Beginners looking to develop practical photography skills.
This course is two of four National Progression Units (NPA).
On completion of the NPA our suggested progression routes
would be Transitions to NQ Photography (SCQF Level 6).
Transform Your Life with Our Coping
Strategies and Building Resilience Course!
SCQF Level 4
25 August 2025
1pm – 3.30pm
14 Weeks
Are you ready to take control of your mental health and build
a stronger, more resilient you? Join our Coping Strategies and
Building Resilience course, specially designed for adult learners
who are eager to enhance their wellbeing and support others.
Why Choose This Course?
Flexible Learning:
Perfect for busy adults, our course fits seamlessly into your
schedule and can be taken as a standalone unit or as part of
the level 4 Mental Health and Wellbeing NPA.
Real-World Skills: Gain practical skills to promote good mental
health and wellbeing in yourself and those around you.
Pathway to Success: Ideal for those considering a career in
public services or further studies in mental health.
Who Should Enrol?
Adults passionate about enhancing their mental health and
resilience.
Individuals looking to support others in their mental health
journey.
Those considering further studies or a career in public
services.
Take the First Step Towards Making a Difference! Enrol Today!
This course is one of three of a National Progression units
(NPA). On completion of the NPA our suggested progression
routes are Child, Health and Social Care
(SCQF – Level 5) or NQ Intr
oduction to Social
Sciences with
Mental Health and
Wellbeing (SCQF
Level 5).

Tuesday
Criminology:
Explore Crime in Your
Community
SCQF Level 5
26 August 2025
9.30am – 12noon
14 Weeks
You will be introduced to a broad understanding of crime within
the community, including its classification, the role of the
media in reporting crime, and how crime is being addressed.
Learners will explore different categories of crime and their
occurrences, examine media reporting, and understand the
efforts of policing and the criminal justice system in addressing
crime.
Who Should Enrol?
Adult learners interested in understanding different
aspects of criminology
Individuals curious about crime in their community
This course is one of four units
of an NPA. Upon completion
of the NPA our suggested
progression routes are
NQ Introduction to Social
Sciences (SCQF – Level 5) or
NC Social Sciences (SCQF –
Level 5).
Let your green fingers Grow with Plant
Propagation
SCQF Level 4
26 August 2025
1pm – 3.30pm
14 Weeks
Unlock the secrets of plant propagation with this engaging
programme. Whether you’re a gardening novice or looking to
expand your horticultural skills, this course introduces you
to the methods commonly used to propagate plants. You’ll
learn the advantages and limitations of various propagation
techniques and discover the best methods for producing a
thriving crop of plants.
This programme is designed to fit around your busy life,
allowing you to balance studies with other commitments.
Enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own plants and
contributing to a greener world. Join us and cultivate your
passion for plants!
Who Should Enrol?
Suitable for learners with little or no experience.
Ideal for those looking to start a career in horticulture.
Adult learners interested in gardening and horticulture
PLEASE NOTE this class will take place mainly outside and you
should be prepared to work in a variety of weather conditions.
This course is one of three units of an NPA. Upon completion
of the NPA our suggested progression routes are to Volunteer
within a Horticulture project within your local community or
alternatively an NQ Horticulture with Gardening Skills (SCQF –
Level 4) or an NC in Horticulture (SCQF – Level 5).
OPEN DAY
15TH MAY 2025 – ALL WELCOME
ENROLMENT DAYS
12, 13 AND 14 AUGUST 2025
19, 20 AND 21 AUGUST 2025
If you want to enrol or know more about our classes,
then please call into the centre, and have a chat with
one of the communities’ team

Wednesday
Sociology:
Culture and Identity
SCQF Level 4
9 September 2025
9.30am – 12 noon
14 Weeks
Join our lively and thought-provoking
Sociology: Culture and Identity course -
designed especially for adult learners who are
curious about society, identity, and the hidden
forces that shape our everyday lives.
What’s it all about?
This course is your gateway to understanding how society
ticks. We’ll explore how your identity is shaped by things
like gender, age, class, nationality, and the cultures
you’re part of - from TikTok trends to timeless
traditions.
How do we learn?
Forget boring lectures — we dive into real-world
examples, TV documentaries, and fascinating
sociological studies. You’ll explore everything from
youth culture to high culture and reflect on your own
life experiences along the way.
Why take this course?
Because sociology isn’t just about theory - it’s about
you. This course helps you see the world (and
yourself) in a whole new light. Whether you’re
returning to learning or just love a good discussion,
this is your chance to explore big ideas in a relaxed,
supportive environment.
Understanding and Supporting
Children’s Behaviours’
Non –certificated short programme
27 August 2025
1pm – 3.30pm
5 Weeks
Are you an adult learner or a parent looking to better
understand and support children’s behaviours? Join our 5-week
course designed to introduce you to the knowledge and skills
to make a positive impact on children’s lives.
Engage in Group discussions, activities, and real-life
experiences shared to help everyone understand the
challenges encountered in child behaviour.
Gain insights supporting children’s emotional and
behavioural development.
By the end of the course, you will:
Have a better understanding of the root causes of children’s
behaviours and how to address them effectively.
How to support and provide a nurturing environment for
children.
Whether you’re a parent or an educator, this course will
provide valuable tools to help you succeed.
Ready to make a difference? Enrol now and take the first step
towards understanding and supporting children’s behaviours!
This course is a short course to encourage further learning,
upon completion of this course we would suggest continued
learning within the learning centre on individual units at
SCQF Level 4 to increase your understanding and gain more
confidence in the subject area.
Building Strong Brains:
Early Childhood Development
Non-certificated short course
22 October 2025
1pm – 3.30pm
5 weeks
Are you ready to unlock the secrets of early childhood
development? Whether you're an adult learner or a parent, this
5-week course is your gateway to understanding and nurturing
young minds.
Why This Course?
Dive into discussions, hands-on activities.
Discover effective techniques to support children's
cognitive and emotional growth
You'll Gain:
Understanding the critical stages of early childhood
development and how to foster a supportive environment.
Build stronger, more meaningful relationships with young
children.
Equip yourself with valuable tools and strategies to help
children thrive.
Don't miss this opportunity to make a lasting impact on young
lives.
This course is a short course to encourage further learning,
upon completion of this course we would suggest continued
learning within the learning centre on individual units at
SCQF Level 4 to increase your understanding and gain more
confidence in the subject area.

Thursday
Unlock Your Potential
in Customer Service!
SCQF Level 4
28 August 2025
9.30am – 12 noon
8 Weeks
Are you interested in working with customers and enhancing
your career? Our comprehensive programme is designed for
adult learners who want to excel in customer service.
What You’ll Learn:
The importance of personal skills and product knowledge in
building positive customer relationships.
How to recognise and effectively handle customer
dissatisfaction.
Gain confidence in researching products or services to meet
customer needs.
Develop a deeper understanding of your role in successful
customer interactions.
Why Choose this Programme?
Boost your confidence and skills in customer service.
Learn practical strategies to deal with unhappy customers.
Enhance your ability to meet and exceed customer
expectations.
Who should Enrol?
People who are working can enhance their existing
skills and gain new strategies to improve their customer
interactions.
If you’re considering a shift to a customer-focused role, this
programme will help you transition smoothly.
Join us and take the first step towards a rewarding career in
customer service. Enrol today and start making a difference!
This programme is a standalone unit and would help learners to
gain employment in retail or volunteer in a front facing role.
Unleash Your
Inner Artist!
Non-Certificated
Join our “Introduction to Painting and Drawing” course for adult
learners! No experience needed – just bring your creativity and
a smile!
Why Enrol?
Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for those who’ve never picked up a
brush or pencil.
Relax and Enjoy: Dive into the world of art without any pressure.
Connect and Create: Meet fellow adult learners and share your
artistic journey.
Course Highlights:
Materials and Setup: Discover the magic of brushes, pencils,
papers, and paints. Create your inspiring workspace!
Basic Techniques: Master lines, shapes, shading, colour mixing,
brush strokes, and textures.
Creative Exercises: Let your imagination run wild with doodle time
and colour play.
Exciting Projects: Draw or paint still life and nature scenes – your
first masterpieces!
Share and Shine: Group sessions and a mini art exhibition to
celebrate your progress!
Ready to Unleash Your Creativity?
Grab your supplies and join us for a fun-filled artistic adventure!
Need Guidance?
We're Here to Help!
SCQF Level 3
28 August 2025
1.00pm – 3.30pm
14 Weeks
30 October 2025
9.30am – 12 noon
6 Weeks
Are you feeling lost or unsure about your next steps? Our
guidance support services are here to assist you in navigating
life's challenges and achieving your goals.
What We Offer:
Educational Support: Assistance with choosing the right courses,
programmes, and educational opportunities.
Experienced Advisors: Our team of experts is dedicated to
helping you succeed.
We provide a safe space for you to discuss your concerns and
aspirations.
Take the first step towards a brighter future. Contact us today
and let us guide you on your journey to success!
Guidance is one of our college support services, taking
part in this programme will assist learners in finding their
next progression route, whether that be Further Education,
Employment or Volunteering.

Friday
Unlock Your Potential with National 4 English
SCQF Level 4
29 August 2025
9.30am – 12 noon
28 Weeks
Are you an adult looking to return to education and enhance
your language skills? The National 4 English course is designed
just for you!
Why Choose National 4 English?
Improve your reading, writing, talking, and listening
abilities.
Gain insights into language, literature, and media.
Learn to produce clear and purposeful texts for various
audiences.
Course Highlights:
Use your skills in real-world contexts.
Join a community of learners just like you.
Showcase your progress with a critical essay or oral
presentation.
Take the first step today, reignite your passion for learning and
open doors to new opportunities. Enrol in National 4 English
and start your journey towards better communication and
greater confidence.
Please note that this class will
run from August 2025 to
June 2026.
If you are interested
in this course, we
will be having an
information session
(with the lecturer
present) on the 22nd
of August 2025
at 10am to 11am.
Come along and find
out more.
OPEN DAY
15TH MAY 2025 – ALL WELCOME
COURSES
MAY BE SUBJECT
TO CHANGE
IT Solutions for Administrators:
Unlock Your Digital Potential!
SCQF Level 4
29 August 2025
1.00pm – 3.30pm
12 Weeks
Join our digital programme designed to develop essential digital
literacy skills for the modern business world. Learn to organise
and process information efficiently using key digital tools.
What You'll Learn:
Spreadsheets: Master basic functions like data entry,
formulas, and chart creation.
Databases: Get hands-on experience with tables, data entry,
and running queries.
Word Processing: Create and format professional
documents, insert images and tables, and use styles for
consistent formatting.
Why Enrol?
Enhance your productivity and efficiency.
Gain valuable skills for any business environment.
Build a strong foundation in digital literacy.
Enrol Now and Start Your Journey to Digital Mastery!
This course is one of three units of an NPA. Upon completion
of the NPA our suggested progression route would be Access
to Digital Administration, Business and Financial Service Skills
(SCQF - Level 5).
ENROLMENT DAYS
12, 13 AND 14 AUGUST 2025
19, 20 AND 21 AUGUST 2025
If you want to enrol or know more about our classes,
then please call into the centre, and have a chat with
one of the communities’ team

FIONA’S JOURNEY:
FINDING RELAXATION
AND FRIENDSHIP AT
FERGUSLIE
Fiona Wallace, a 36-year-old resident of Renfrew, has
found an inspiring path to personal growth and skill
development at Ferguslie Learning Centre, part of
West College Scotland. Having lived in Renfrew her
entire life, Fiona credits the centre with helping
her gain new qualifications, build confidence, and
even enhance her passion for writing.
Fiona first discovered Ferguslie Learning Centre through
Enable in Paisley, where she was encouraged to take
computing courses to brush up on her skills. Fiona said,
“The girl I worked with, suggested I try the courses. I’m
so glad she pointed me in the right direction.”
Her time at Ferguslie has been transformational. The computing courses have directly benefited Fiona’s job at
Livingstone Brown Solicitors, where she assists with typing letters and statements. “The courses have been really
helpful in my work, and my colleagues even enjoy reading my notes from the criminology course which I’m now studying,”
she shared.
The staff are so
welcoming, and the
environment is so
relaxed
The criminology course, meanwhile, has had a significant impact
on Fiona’s creative pursuits. A writer since the age of 11, Fiona
has completed ten novels, including two crime series—the Melody
McMaster Series and the Jeremy Turing Series. Her self-published
book, ‘Circus of Death’, was inspired by a trip to Largs and written
as a birthday gift for her mum during the second lockdown.
“Criminology has been fascinating and has already improved
my crime novels,” Fiona said. “‘Crime Scenes’ was a particular
favourite—it’s taught me so much. I’m about to start ‘The History of Criminology,’ which I think will help even more,
though I’m nervous because my novels are set in history and I imagine I’ve gotten some details wrong!”
Fiona’s experience at Ferguslie has gone beyond academic learning; it’s also been about connecting with others and
feeling part of a community. “The staff are so welcoming, and the environment is so relaxed,” she said. “It’s not like
a typical college campus, which can feel overwhelming. You only come in once a week, and you meet so many great
people. If you see a course that interests you, I’d say absolutely go for it.”
Ferguslie Learning Centre’s mission to engage learners and build capacity in the community is evident in Fiona’s story.
With its supportive atmosphere and tailored opportunities, the centre is helping residents across Renfrewshire gain the
skills and confidence they need to achieve their goals—whether that’s finding work, gaining qualifications, or simply
pursuing a passion.
For Fiona, the impact has been life-changing. “Publishing my first book,
‘Circus of Death,’ was a dream come true,” she said. “I couldn’t have done it
without the skills and confidence I’ve gained through Ferguslie. The centre
has helped me in ways I never expected.”
Fiona’s book, ‘Circus of Death,’ is available on Amazon under her pen name,
F.M. Wallace, and she hopes to publish more of her work in the future.
With the knowledge she’s gaining at Ferguslie, there’s no doubt Fiona will
continue to thrive—both as a student and as a writer.
Photo: Fiona Wallace

Find out more about our
part-time
full-time,
and
evening
courses.
Opening Times
Monday – Friday
9.00am – 4.30pm
Ferguslie Learning Centre
10 Falcon Crescent, Paisley, PA3 1NS
Our Communities Team are available to
support you to sign-up on these courses,
and answer any queries you may have.
Zanya McCartney
e zvetlana.mccartney@wcs.ac.uk
m 07872 837245
Kathleen Brown
e kathleen.brown@wcs.ac.uk
m 07980 696139
t 0141 842 1015
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Introductory
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