Adult Learning Wales offers a wide range of courses that explore the rich tapestry of Welsh history, language, and culture through the expert guidance of tutor Dr. Ralph Haeussler. These courses bridge the gap between the ancient world and modern Welsh identity, focusing on archaeology, linguistics, and heritage.

Dr. Ralph Haeussler, formerly an Associate Professor at Lampeter University, specialises in Ancient History and Heritage, offering a curriculum deeply rooted in the Welsh landscape. His materials specifically link global historical contexts such as the Roman Empire and the Celtic world directly to the architecture, economy, and traditions of Wales.

He currently teaches the following online courses for Adult Learning Wales:

Introduction to Latin

An introductory course that teaches the basics of the Latin language, key vocabulary, and the basics of Latin grammar. Latin is important for understanding our Welsh heritage, for reading Latin Inscriptions from the Roman to the modern period, and for the various ancient and medieval sources in Wales written in Latin.

Intermediate Latin

Based on a good knowledge of Latin grammar, this course explores more of the advanced grammatical constructions but also engages with a variety of ancient and medieval texts to improve your knowledge of Latin.

Caves to Kingdoms: Prehistoric Wales and Beyond

Starting with Palaeolithic cave art and Mesolithic hunter-gatherers, our focus will be on the increasingly complex societies of the Neolithic and Bronze Age, with their monumental architecture, such as henges and burial mounds.

Life in the Celtic World

This course will examine a wide range of archaeological sources that provide insights into the ways of life of Celtic-speaking populations from Wales to Gaul and Pannonia, exploring, among others, their identities, societies and lifestyles, their art, craftsmanship, architecture, as well as their technical, mining, and agricultural knowledge.

Dr. Ralph Haeussler’s courses emphasise that history is visible all around us. By participating, learners gain:

Linguistic Insight: Understanding how Latin influenced the modern Welsh language.

Cultural Context: Exploring how ancient religion and economy inform current Welsh traditions.

Local Connection: Course materials are specifically tailored to mention and use locations throughout Wales.

Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply curious about the roots of the landscape of Wales, Dr Ralph Haeussler’s online courses will help you discover the tangible links between ancient civilisations and our modern identity.

Explore our Welsh History and Heritage Classes