01. Who is this course for?
The course is for those with an interest and enthusiasm to learn about the planets and stars visible in the winter night sky. No prior knowledge is assumed.
01. What will I learn? [Old ‘What is the course about?’]
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02. What will I learn?
On this online 3 hour course - you will gain an overview of the stars and planets visible in the winter 2026/2027 night sky and how to find them using the naked eye. We will consider some of the properties and characteristics of the stars and planets on view,
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03. How will I learn?
This course is delivered online over 3 hours and is tutor-led but learners are very much encouraged to contribute. At the start, some overall learning objectives and personal learning aims will be agreed and form the Individual Learning Plan.
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04. What will I need to bring?
As this course is online, you will need access to a PC or laptop and have a reliable internet connection. If you do not have access to a PC or laptop, then we recommend contacting your tutor as we may be able to help. All Leicestershire Libraries offer FREE public WiFi and study spaces if you do not have an appropriate space at home. Use of a mobile phone or tablet for this course is not recommended. Paper and pens, or even a small laptop, to help you take notes will prove useful.
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05. What skills or experience do I need?
You will need to have a good standard of English language, reading and writing and numeracy to attend this course. You will also need to have basic ICT/Digital Skills as the course is online. If you are concerned about your English, maths or IT skills, we recommend you speak to your tutor, as we may be able to help.
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06. How will I be assessed?
The course is non-accredited, Your learning will be assessed by a short quiz and completion of the Individual Learning Plan at the end of the session.
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07. What could I do after this course?
Once you complete this course you may want to progress further in your learning journey. Potential progression courses may include Wellbeing Saturdays: Astronomy - Spring Night Sky or Astronomy Beginners Next Steps
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08. How will I be supported in my learning?
We aim to support all learners to succeed. Our tutors will work with all learners to meet individual needs by using a range of resources and teaching methods.
When you enrol on your course, you will be asked if you have any additional learning needs or disabilities which may affect your learning. This might include physical disabilities, neurodivergent needs (e.g., Autistic Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, or dyspraxia, etc.), visual and auditory impairments, or a medical condition which might affect your learning. Your tutor will contact you prior to joining the course to discuss what support can be put in place.
For some learners this may mean organising extra time in exams or arranging for a Learning Support Assistant to support your learning in class. We also offer a wide range of assistive technology such as reader pens, screen readers, large print keyboards and screens, alongside in-class resources such as coloured overlays, large-print resources and more.
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09. Is help available with course fees?
Many of our courses are FREE to all learners. Your course may be FREE if you are unemployed or earn under £26,800 before deductions. If you are in receipt of state benefits or have a low income (£28,733.50 before deductions) you could be entitled to enrol on your course at a 70% reduced fee cost. Some exclusions apply, eligibility for fee reduction is subject to change, and you may be required to provide evidence of earnings. If the amount you must pay for your course is over £50, we offer instalment plans which break down the cost of learning into a set number of easy monthly payments. If you need help with the wider costs of study, such as childcare, resources, travel, and transport costs, you may be eligible to have these costs reimbursed through our Discretionary Learner Support Fund. Visit us online for more details, and to download the online application form.
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10. How do I choose the right course for me?
If you are unsure about which course may be right for you, our Business Support team are on hand to offer FREE and impartial information, advice and guidance on the options available to you.
Please call FREEphone 0800 988 0308 or email adult.learning@leics.gov.uk
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