ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ’s Waterloo Centre for Adult Education is one of the UK’s oldest and largest specialist providers of adult education, founded in 1889 by activist, feminist and educationalist Emma Cons.
Our Waterloo Centre is here for the curious – for those who want to learn while joining others in their pursuit of knowledge. It’s a cultural hub for adults.
A place to learn and discuss what you’ve learnt since 1889. Because it’s not just about what you learn – whether it’s a new language, sound engineering, jewellery making, childcare, medicine or maths – it’s about the people you meet along your journey.
Ever since our inception, we’ve believed that education and socialisation go hand in hand. So our Waterloo Centre for Adult Education offers the courses you need to continue your education. It’s a place to continue learning – from us and each other.
Our expert tutors are well-known professionals in their fields, with bags of knowledge and passion. So you could experience learning with artists, musicologists, scientists and more.
Explore a range of courses on offer at Waterloo below:
Why study at Waterloo?
- We have been teaching adults for over 130 years in the arts, humanities and applied sciences
- We are a friendly, dynamic and diverse learning community where you’re free to be yourself and explore your interests
- We’re committed to making adult education as accessible as possible so you can achieve your goals
- Easily accessible by train, tube, bike and bus
Higher Education and Access to Higher EducationÌý
Our Waterloo centre offers a choice of higher education courses and training designed for adult learners, ranging from Fashion, Music, Ceramics and Performing Arts. We also offer a wide range of Access to Higher Education Diplomas for those who require the necessary Level 3 equivalent qualification needed to start their higher education journey.
Higher Education learners at ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ benefit from:
- Competitive fee structures
- Lower than average student to teacher in-class ratio
- Industry-led curriculum and facilities
Work with us
Many of ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ’s strengths are most readily expressed through the partnerships we have with other organisations with a stake in skills development and education at large. Read our new stakeholder guide below, and please be in touch if you think we can work together in the service of Londoners’ skills needs.
View or download the Waterloo Centre Stakeholder Guide (4 MB):
Fantastic location
The Waterloo Centre is only a stones throw away from both Lambeth North and Waterloo stations, close to the thriving Lower Marsh market, coffee shops, restaurants, cinemas and theatres. It has excellent transport links and is known for its cultural diversity.
Venue hire
If you are looking for a space where you can meet, work, entertain, teach or perform, we have a wide range of spaces and services to suit your needs, and as we’re just a 10-minute walk from Waterloo.