Weekend courses at the University of Cambridge Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) offer an inspiring way for adults to learn in a welcoming, supportive environment. These short courses give learners the space to explore ideas, reconnect with curiosity, and experience the unique atmosphere of Madingley Hall.
The experiences of David, Igor, Dora and Brigitte highlight the richness and impact of weekend study at Cambridge.
For David, a weekend course at Cambridge marked the beginning of an unexpected academic journey. He first joined a course in 2009, hoping simply to answer a few historical questions, but found something far more meaningful.
“School history was all dates and causes. At Madingley, it became human, people under pressure, wrestling with impossible dilemmas.”
One weekend course quickly became fourteen, spanning literature and history. The experience helped him discover new confidence and, eventually, pursue creative writing certificates, online diplomas and Master’slevel study.
On studying at Cambridge he said, “It’s a privilege… It always will be.”
After arriving in the UK from Ukraine, Igor turned to PACE weekend courses as a way to rebuild his professional direction and confidence.
“From the moment I stepped onto the grounds, I felt it… It’s the kind of place where you instinctively want to learn, to grow, to share.”
He completed four weekend courses in total, expressing that the openness of the tutors made a deep impression:
“These weren’t ordinary classes… That honesty resonated with me.”
The diversity of his fellow learners became a source of inspiration:
“Different backgrounds, different stories, but the same drive… The connections I made were invaluable.”
The experience helped him found a UKbased business and earn recognition as an Exceptional Global Talent.
“It wasn’t just an education - it was a turning point in my life.”
Based in Rome and working for the Bank of Italy, Dora joined a PACE weekend course in coaching to explore new ideas and perspectives.
“My motivation was curiosity rather than a specific career goal. I wanted space for reflection… and exposure to different viewpoints.”
For her, Cambridge offered the balance she was looking for:
“Even for short courses, I value a serious academic setting and a wellstructured learning context.”
The group learning environment became a highlight:
“The tutor created real cohesion among people who were very different… The connections formed were lasting.”
She describes the impact as subtle but significant:
“It reinforced the value of stepping outside one’s usual environment… learning is also about relationships and dialogue.”
For Brigitte, a weekend course offered the opportunity to explore a subject she had long hoped to pursue.
“I have always wanted to research and work in history, but this choice wasn’t open to me in my younger years.”
Her experience at Madingley Hall gave her the chance to reconnect with a passion she had carried for years.
Read more student stories here.
A welcoming environment - Open to all adults, with no formal entry requirements.
A historic and inspiring setting - Madingley Hall offers an atmosphere that helps learners switch off from everyday pressures.
A diverse and supportive community - Learners join from around the world and from all walks of life.
Expert teaching - Courses are delivered by Cambridge academics and practitioners committed to accessible, high-quality learning.
A pathway to future study - Many weekend learners go on to explore short online courses, undergraduate and postgraduate certificates and diplomas or Master’s programmes.
Where do I stay during a weekend course?
Are dietary requirements catered for?
Do I get a qualification at the end of the course?
Do I need previous academic experience to join?
Who teaches the courses?
What is the typical structure of a weekend course?
What is included in the course fee?
Weekend course tuition fees include:
Do learners attend alone or with others?
Is the weekend suitable for international learners?
Can a weekend course support my personal or professional development?
How do I book a course?
Courses can be viewed and booked directly through the PACE website - find out more.
If these stories resonate, a weekend course could be the ideal next step in your own learning journey.
Explore our upcoming weekend courses
Got a question? Get in touch.
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