Education Service

Our free, trauma-informed courses provide structure, purpose and connection, helping people build confidence, improve wellbeing and take positive steps towards further learning, volunteering and greater independence.

Education creates lasting change


Our learners consistently tell us that education has helped them rebuild confidence and improve their wellbeing — with growing numbers going on to volunteer or continue their learning.

“I have got significantly better with my mental health and have found confidence in myself.”

SCQF 5 Contemporary Art Practice Student , Marie Trust

Who can access our Education Service?


Our courses are designed to reduce barriers to learning and support people who may feel apprehensive about returning to education. This is the only Community Education Curriculum in Glasgow specifically designed to widen access to mainstream education for homeless people and those at risk. This includes people experiencing or recovering from homelessness, affected by mental ill health or addiction, involved with justice services, or simply looking for a supported route back into learning.

Support from enrolment onwards


We handle enrolment and course allocation for you, whether learning takes place at our Albion Street premises or with one of our education partners — reducing barriers and giving you a supported way in.

Our Digital Hub

With funding from The Clothworkers’ Foundation, we are working with Citizen Literacy to develop a Digital Hub for our Education Service.

The Hub will provide learners with devices and access to a customised literacy platform, helping them develop reading, writing and digital skills while allowing tutors to offer more personalised support.

"Seeing a learner regain their confidence and begin the journey of rebuilding their life through education is the best part of this job."

Adam McIlwaine, Curriculum Manager

NEW COURSES STARTING IN AUGUST 2026!

To book a place on any course below, complete the enrolment form at the bottom of this page, or contact Adam (Curriculum Manager) directly at amcilwaine@themarietrust.org.uk / 07903 263261.

Explore the history and cultural significance of tartan, from its early origins to its place in modern Scottish life. Learners will also develop practical skills by weaving a small tartan sample of their own.

Date: Monday 24 August 2026
Time: 1pm–3pm
Duration: 10 weeks
Location: The Marie Trust, 29 Albion Street, Glasgow G1 1LH

Develop confidence and creativity through practical writing exercises. The course explores storytelling, character, dialogue, poetry, journalism, imagery and music-inspired writing, with opportunities to share work and receive constructive feedback.

Date: Wednesday 26 August 2026
Time: 2.30pm–4.30pm
Duration: 12 weeks
Location: The Marie Trust, 29 Albion Street, Glasgow G1 1LH

Explore practical ways to support personal wellbeing through sleep, nutrition, exercise and relaxation. Learners will reflect on their progress, set achievable goals and develop healthier routines.

Date: Thursday 27 August 2026
Time: 1pm–3.30pm
Duration: 12 weeks
Location: The Marie Trust, 29 Albion Street, Glasgow G1 1LH

Gain practical experience of traditional textile skills, including spinning, weaving and knitting. Learners can work at their own pace while creating textile pieces and developing confidence in creative making.

Date: Tuesday 25 August 2026
Time: 1pm–4pm
Location: The Marie Trust, 29 Albion Street, Glasgow G1 1LH

Develop practical skills for moving into a new home or maintaining an existing tenancy. The course covers cooking, cleaning, budgeting, household management and tenancy confidence.

Learners can work towards units in personal finance, meal preparation for independent living and successful tenancy.

Date: Thursday 27 August 2026
Time: To be confirmed
Duration: 12 weeks
Location: The Marie Trust, 29 Albion Street, Glasgow G1 1LH

A beginner-friendly course designed to build confidence using everyday digital tools and commonly available software. Learners will develop skills in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, creating documents and completing online forms.

Participants will also have the opportunity to work towards three SCQF Level 4 IT units.

Date: Tuesday 25 August 2026
Time: 1pm–3pm
Duration: 16 weeks
Location: City of Glasgow College, Cathedral Street, Glasgow G4 0RF

Interested in a course?

Please click the link below and complete the enrolment form.

Please remember to click 'submit' once the form is completed!

Once received we will be in touch with you to arrange an appointment.

The Marie Trust works with Glasgow Life to provide ESOL classes and assessments at our Albion Street premises, for anyone aged 16 and over wanting to improve their English reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. Classes are available for beginners to pre-intermediate learners, with Book Groups and Creative Writing Groups available for intermediate and advanced learners.

To request an assessment:

  1. Email Glasgow Life at glasgowslearning.esol@glasgowlife.org.uk with your full name, mobile number and postcode. (Please contact Glasgow Life directly — not The Marie Trust.)

  2. You'll be invited to an assessment session to determine your level.

  3. Once assessed, you'll be told the schedule and location once a class is available in your area.

Classes run only when there are enough participants in a local area, so availability may vary.