LIVERPOOL based arts organisation Collective Encounters is running a new version of its popular training course:- ‘Confidence through Creativity,’ in partnership with training provider Mpower People CIC. Formerly an online-only course during social distancing, the course will run as a ‘hybrid’ programme for the first time, starting in April this year.

The course is aimed at women aged 19+ in the Liverpool City Region who are looking for a confidence boost due to being out of work, education, or training, or for some other reason. It will run on:- Tuesdays and Fridays, from 1pm to 3pm, throughout:- April to June 2023, at:- Gateway Conference Centre, 75 London Road, Liverpool, L38HY, or go online, via Zoom.

The course uses a variety of fun, arts based approaches to develop creative and digital skills, supporting women to build confidence and self esteem in a safe group setting. Activities include simple drama, creative writing and film, leading to a group performance. It is a great way to meet new people, try something new, and have fun, while gaining an accredited qualification and a great sense of achievement.

Course participants have the option to join sessions in person at the:- Gateway Conference Centre, on London Road or online via Zoom, providing flexibility to those with caring responsibilities, mobility issues, or other circumstances that mean either in person or online participation can be challenging.

Those taking part in:- ‘Confidence through Creativity’ will be given step-by-step support to get online and access the sessions, including being provided with equipment and mobile data connections if necessary. The course is therefore suitable for those who would benefit from the option to participate remotely, but are not currently able to. Equally, it is open to those who would prefer to attend in-person.

The course is run by professional arts practitioners including Theatre Director Tessa Buddle, Art Therapist Michelle Richards, and Actress Heidi Robinson, as well as Digital Skills Trainer Michelle Smith, who are all trained and experienced in supporting women to build confidence and overcome barriers. Previous participants have gone on to University and College courses, further training, regular creative groups, volunteering positions and paid employment in the arts and other sectors. Individuals are supported to identify their goals and make positive steps that are right for them.

Former participant Terri said:- “By doing this course you’ll meet good people, you’ll share ideas, and have a lot of laughs. I’ve grown enormously in confidence, and feel comfortable being around people a lot more. It’s an excellent course for learning new skills. I 100% recommend it because you’ll get so much enjoyment from it.”

Enrolment is open now. To sign up or find out more, contact Tessa:- Tessa@Collective-Encounters.Org.UK, or call / text on:- 07564356809, alternatively you can also visit:- Collective-Encounters.Org.UK.