Great Britain’s place in the world, 1800 - 1875

This course is available for enrolment.

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Course code: S7NH

This course will look at the dynamic links between economic/industrial, political, technological, demographic, military and social changes affecting Britain between 1800 and 1875. We will also review how these changes influenced Britain’s foreign policy and its place in the world.

when: From 25 Sep 2026 to 04 Dec 2026
Friday 13:00-15:00 10 weeks
Tutor: Neil Harrison

where

location to be advised

fees

full fee for this course £168.00, concession fee £102.00

who

Bristol Adult Learning

stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk

0117 903 8844

Description

This course will look at the dynamic links between economic/industrial, political, technological, demographic, military and social changes affecting Britain between 1800 and 1875. We will also review how these changes influenced Britain’s foreign policy and its place in the world.

What can students expect?

It will give students who study this course a much greater understanding of the dynamics between economic, industrial, commercial, technological, demographic, political, military, and social changes that faced generations of British politicians between 1800 and 1875. By the mid-19th century, a small group of islands lying off the north-west coast of Europe constituted the leading nation in world affairs and during this course, we will uncover the reasons for this unique set of affairs. This course will then examine the events and influences confronting British Statesmen during this epoch period of British influence worldwide, Pax Britannica. Like all other civilizations at the top of their wheel of fortune, the British could believe that their position was both natural and destined to continue. Although the British had to confront a series of challenges and tests during this time, this was the age of Palmerston and Disraeli, it was British strengths rather than weaknesses which were mostly in evidence.

Late starters allowed?

Yes. They could join up to the 3rd lesson of each term.

Previous experience required?

No

What is the progression route?

Join the 2nd part of this course, Great Britain’s place in the world 1875 -1945, in the spring term.

Are there any extra costs?

No

Work set between sessions?

Yes. Some suggested reading on the topic that we have covered each week.

What should students bring?

Teaching method/style?

<ol>
<li>Lecture. I plan to use this style of teaching as one of the primary ways I will communicate with my students</li>
<li>Direct Instruction. I plan to use this as a way of reinforcing some of the key points I have taught</li>
<li>Guided discussion. I will actively ask open questions and allow students to participate and facilitate a very open culture within the class</li>
<li>Case based learning. Occasionally, I plan to ask the students to work in groups and discuss the issues faced by British Politicians in the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. </li>
<li>Interactive video/audio learning. Using both video and audio material from the time it really brings a lot of the things that we learn in the classroom to life, rather than abstract concepts. This has proven very popular with the students and helped in reinforcing the learning during my current lessons.</li>
<li>Pictorial and cartographic aides. I plan to print out several pictures, photos and charts to demonstrate to the students in a practical visible form the subjects and topics we have covered off during each lesson.</li>
</ol>

Course Cancellations and Refunds

If we cancel your course

<ul>
<li>You will receive a full refund of course fees.</li>
<li>We are not responsible for any additional costs, such as materials already purchased.</li>
</ul>

If you cancel

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: refund minus a 20% administration fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no refund provided.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
</ul>

Refund processing

<ul>
<li>Refunds for online or telephone enrolments will be made via the original payment method within 14 days of approval. </li>
<li>If you enrolled in the office, you will need to come in with your payment card to arrange a refund.</li>
</ul>

Transfers

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: transfer minus a 10% transfer fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no transfer provided.</li>
<li>All transfers are subject to availability.</li>
<li>Transfers between Language levels may be possible with less than 7 days notice, subject to availability.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
<li>If we cancel your course, and you wish to transfer to another course this will be free of charge.</li>
</ul>

Illness and non-attendance

<ul>
<li>We recognise that illness and unforeseen circumstances may arise. However, please note that we are unable to offer refunds, credits, or transfers for missed sessions due to ill health or non-attendance.</li>
</ul>