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From Instagram to Italian: Suffolk New College unveils affordable new leisure learning courses

News

Suffolk New College is launching a new autumn programme of short and affordable "leisure learning" courses, ranging from Italian to Instagram.

The big picture: Starting in September, the programme provides affordable, short courses for people of all ages to learn new skills, socialise, and make friends. Last year, around 500 people participated in these courses.

Why it matters: The short and affordable courses offer an opportunity for personal growth and creative outlet, potentially leading to new interests or even life changes.

Two women on a printmaking course
Printmaking courses are availableSuffolk New College

Key details:

  • Courses include languages (Italian, French, Japanese), arts (photography, printmaking, painting), and digital skills, including an Instagram masterclass.

  • Future courses will cover British Sign Language and upcycling clothes.

  • The Instagram course is a two-hour online session taught by Elene Marsden, a radio presenter and social media expert.

  • Pottery and Japanese have been among the most popular offerings recently.

A lady at a knitting class
Knitting is another popular leisure learning course at Suffolk New CollegeSuffolk New College

What they're saying:

  • Tracey Macdonald, business development co-ordinator: "We are delighted to launch our new autumn programme. The short affordable options offer the chance for people of all ages to learn, socialise and make new friends."

  • Elene Marsden, Instagram course teacher: "The course is a two hour online session for people who want to get in to Instagram but don't know where to start. I help them create 'a stunning profile' and we also look at the power of reels and techniques for creating engaging content."

  • Adam Green, 55, leisure learning student: "I've enjoyed returning to something I love and rediscovering that passion for creativity. It's been stimulating and I'm very proud of the work I've created."

The bottom line: Suffolk New College's leisure learning programme provides a broad range of courses, allowing local residents to explore new interests, develop skills, and engage with their community in a relaxed and informative setting.

Get involved: You can learn more at https://www.suffolk.ac.uk/study-with-us/adult-professional/leisure-learning/

Former Ipswich Town striker charged in £600k cannabis smuggling case

News

Former Ipswich Town striker Jay Emmanuel-Thomas has been charged with attempting to smuggle £600,000 worth of cannabis through a UK airport.

The big picture: The 33-year-old, who spent two seasons at Portman Road from 2011 to 2013, was arrested by National Crime Agency officers in Scotland following the seizure of approximately 60kg of the drug at Stansted airport.

Jay Emmanuel Thomas playing for Ipswich Town
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas playing for TownAlamy

Key details:

  • Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, 33, was arrested Wednesday in Gourock, Inverclyde.

  • He's accused of attempting to smuggle £600,000 worth of cannabis through Stansted airport.

  • Border Force officers found approximately 60kg of the drug in two suitcases from Bangkok.

  • Emmanuel-Thomas is set to appear at Carlisle magistrates court Thursday, charged with importing class B drugs.

60kg of cannabis
60kg of cannabis was seizedNCA

JET's Ipswich career: The journeyman joined Ipswich in 2011 for £1.1m from Arsenal, scoring nine goals in 75 appearances for the Tractor Boys. He left Ipswich in 2013 in a swap deal with Bristol City. He most recently played with Greenock Morton in the Scottish Championship.

The bottom line: The NCA warns that cannabis smuggling into the UK carries a maximum 14-year prison sentence, contradicting misinformation some couriers receive about facing only fines.

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