Capital tracks: how the railways shaped London 1836-2020

The railways were key to London becoming the world’s greatest city in the 19th century. In the 20th they shaped its suburbs and in the 21st they continue to be the lifeblood of the city. We explore this unique development with talks and study visits.

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Key course information

Dates
10/01/12 - 20/03/12

Day(s)
Tue

Duration
11 weeks

Time
11:00 - 13:00

Fees
Full fee: £110
Senior fee: £62
Concession: £30

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HH004

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

The key role of railways in making London the world’s greatest metropolis in the 19th century, shaping its suburbs in the 20th and continuing to be the lifeblood of the city today.

What topics will we cover?

The great Victorian termini, the world’s first underground railway, the growth of Metro-land and suburbia, the design excellence of London Transport and vital modern developments like the DLR, East London line and Crossrail.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

Show you understand how the railways have shaped modern London
Identify the impact of the railways on your own London community and other areas of the city
Discuss both the problems and benefits of public transport in the city past, present and future.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is an `introductory` course and does not assume any previous study or reading although you will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. You will gain more from the course, in terms of enjoyment and learning, if you are able and willing to do some supplementary reading. As with most of our history and current affairs courses, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills. Everyone has experience of and views on transport in the city.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Interactive lecture/talks, use of key images including film, class discussion and quiz, visits to Kings Cross/St Pancras and the London Transport Museum Depot collections centre at Acton Town. No admission costs on the class visits but you will need to use your Oyster/Travelcard to get there.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

A recommended reading list for the course will be provided. Visiting the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden and its website www.ltmuseum.co.uk is also recommended. The museum shop has a wide range of books and dvds available.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.