Reviews
I have been to two courses at city lit. Introduction to massage and a sculpture one. Both excellent! Will definitely look for more courses!
City Lit has a wonderful variety of classes. Speaking as a retired but energetic professional dancer I would say that their tap dance classes, (Intermediate in particular on Thursdays and Fridays) are of a very high and professional standard. If you are able to commit to a whole term (as opposed to drop in), then you will really progress by taking one or both of these courses.
The building itself is very nice, however some of the teaching ( especially on the clothing making courses ) needs to vastly improve, especially when they are short courses! I came out of the course having learned nothing new, apart from the fact that I will never study textiles there again....Having said this I am giving it another chance by doing a language course here, so I will have to re review after finishing that.
I have done classes in several London and Edinburgh ballet and dance schools/colleges/etc but the City Lit stands out for sheer professionalism.
Teaching staff and students always engaging and friendly. A pure joy.
I was a tad unsure about the Art & Design Portfolio course that I enrolled on last year, as there were no online reviews of it that I could find. Anyway, my fears were allayed after the second and third week in, especially as we had two tutors, the very amusing Ron and Marcus, who were at times like a pair of TV comedians from the 1970s. I did enjoy their banter, and their teaching styles were very relaxed and complimentary to the course and students. We were given design tasks to complete within a certain timescale, such as 45 minutes or even 10. This often consisted of creating collages, painting still life, and also life drawing with a model one evening. Then we would place our work on display on the wall or table for other students to critique. The tutors offered sensitive and constructive criticism and did not trash student's work. This ensured that there was a very good atmosphere during the class for all concerned. My only gripe with City Lit, is that they do not have evening Art degrees classes - just like most institutions. Why not? Such a shame, as I would happily return to there.
Hidden away from the main street, but very accessible. The inside is pleasant and inviting, with clearly marked directions to all the different classroom and facilities. They have a very wide range of courses in many categories, from dancing to languages, history, and science. I've only tried one so far (Charleston! It's so much fun!) so I wouldn't know about the overall quality, but if you just want to learn a new skill or subject, I think it's a great way to start.
A great place for short courses in many different subjects. Exam prep is helpful and the writers courses are excellent. Brilliant value for money. The tutors are highly experienced and experts in their field.
City Lit is an oasis of learning in central London. The range of courses is inspirational. The atmosphere is friendly and you meet like minded people who offer stimulating company. What's not to like? Life long learning at its best.
Great venue for a book launch!! Centrally located and easy to find. The offices are nice here too!!