Acoustic guitar – improve your skills

What prior knowledge, experience and qualifications will I need?
This course is not suitable for beginners. Learners are expected to have experience of playing a guitar and to have attended a course in the past. Basic computer skills are essential.

Learning Goals:
Learn all major and minor chord shapes in open position and begin to learn how to use barre chords. Learn how to use fingerstyle and plectrum techniques. Apply your knowledge of the fretboard and basic chord shapes to play songs and pieces. Identify and achieve a personal goal as discussed with your tutor.

What teaching methods will the tutor use?
The tutor will use a range of teaching methods during the course, including demonstration (both group and individual), one to one tuition, group work, progress assessments, observation, discussion and question and answer sessions.

What assessment methods will the tutor use?
The tutor will use various methods to assess your progress during the course. These may include observation, completion of an Individual Learning Plan which will be updated regularly, performance evaluations and question and answer sessions.

Will extra work be required outside the class times?
You may wish to work on projects outside the classroom to aid your progress. Homework exercises are set to help you improve and expand on what you've learned during the session. You're encouraged to access our virtual learning environment (VLE) at all.lewisham.gov.uk to take part in course forums and various online activities provided by the tutor. Please also sign up for a Pinterest account – find us listed under 'Achieving Dreams', and click 'Follow'.

What materials will I need for the course and how much will they cost?
Learners will need to bring their own instrument – a nylon or steel string acoustic guitar. You'll also need a digital device connected to the internet to access our virtual learning environment (VLE). Please collect the course schedule and any additional projects from the VLE before the start date.

What do I need to bring to the first class?
Please bring your guitar and a notebook and pen or digital note taking device. Also bring your completed initial assessment if you haven’t emailed it to the tutor before your first session.

Options when finished
The department offers a wide variety of design, media, music and food courses at different levels. Information about these courses is available through the tutor, the curriculum leader or the ALL programme.

Additional information
The tutor will contact you by email before the course begins, so please ensure we have your correct details. ALL cannot be held responsible for any items left by the learner in our workrooms. Please leave the space clean and tidy. Any drinks taken into this space must be kept in a reusable lidded cup or bottle.

For general enquiries and course availability information call 0208 314 3300. For more detailed information and guidance about the course: