This term will take place over 12 weeks; starting on Monday 12th January 2026 and will conclude on Monday 30th March 2026, between 3pm-4:30pm.
Join Dr Simon Gregor to explore global history, drawing inspiration from the 'History of the World' syllabus which is studied in the American school curriculum. It will look at the broad sweep of human history, starting with ancient civilizations and early belief systems, progressing forward through time each term, always with an emphasis on how different societies were developing and interacting alongside one another. This course will highlight what was happening across the globe simultaneously, giving a much richer and more connected view of the past.
We expect the full series of terms to span over several years, though students will be able to dip in and out of terms depending on their interests on a particular term subject. As with our other history courses, this one is designed for the joy of learning rather than a formal qualification, but it will still build valuable critical thinking skills, working with primary and secondary sources, maps, and data to strengthen analytical reading, writing, and historical interpretation.
Term 1: From First Humans to First Civilizations
Where and when did humans first appear on Earth? And what was the pathway from early hunter-gatherers to the first civilizations? In the first term of this exciting new exploration of world history, we will tell the story of the very first people on the planet. We will discuss the earliest human societies, the Neolithic Revolution, and the role of agriculture in shaping the route to the first civilizations. We will examine some of the earliest examples of civilizations: in the Tigris-Euphrates region, in Egypt, and in India, and analyse the similarities and differences between them. We'll also begin to examine the classical period (from about 600BCE to 600CE), with a particular focus on China. The aim of this first term will be to create a springboard from which the rest of our study of world history can develop. Join Simon for the first stage of an epic journey through the history of the world!
Cost and Format
The term fee is £180 and includes twelve sessions, each lasting 90 minutes. All classes will take place on Zoom. Please keep your Zoom link safe for the whole term, as it will stay the same for that twelve week duration.
If you miss a session or would simply like to watch again, a recording will arrive by email within 48 hours and will stay available for at least 14 days.
There is no expectation to buy textbooks or complete homework. Simon will share regular handouts, and suggest optional reading for further study if you are keen to explore the topics in more depth.
The course is designed for adult learners and aims to balance clear teaching with space for open discussion. The hope is that you will learn a lot and enjoy yourself at the same time!
Booking Future Terms
Each term will need to be booked and paid for separately, which helps spread the cost across the year. As an active participant, you will be notified when the next term is ready to book. We intend to keep the day, time and price consistent for your group wherever possible.
The full programme is expected to run over several years, although you are welcome to dip in and out depending on your interests for each term’s theme.
Term Structure
Each term will run for 12 weeks. Exact dates will be confirmed closer to the time, but the general pattern will be as follows:
New Year Term: Mid January - end of March
Spring and Summer Term: Late April - early July
Autumn Term: Late September - early December
Disclaimer and Consent
By joining the course, you agree to being recorded during each session. Recordings are shared only with fellow participants to support your learning.
You also consent to your name and email address being shared with Simon, so that he can send course updates and materials. No additional personal information will be passed on.
Information documents including Zoom log in details will be included at the bottom of your confirmation email after you have registered.
(If you do not receive a confirmation email please check your spam/junk email boxes or sign into the 'Your Account' section of our website to retrieve all of your booking and course information)