The Learners ranged from 20th to 50+, of differing ethnicity,
with differing commands of English language and with varying levels of computer
competence ranging from complete beginners to those students quite computer
competent needing help with their digital camera images or help with website designs ... The tutor had to individualise his approach to each student and he did this with great patience. Also by using Brookes students as volunteers to assist us in one to one.

Zohra Northway

It was good learning experience for me here at Northway IT centre and Brookes bridges project it's not just the teaching and learning part, but also Ahmed's constructive ways to build confidence helped me gain back my confidence to be able to volunteer and teach basic IT. Now I have chosen to study a foundation Social Studies Degree at Ruskin College, as it is a passion of mine to work with young people and provide opportunities for them that wasn’t there for me.

Japhary Ketinga

I think Brookes Bridges courses make me feel confident in using design and creative design software to communicate my ideas in a creative way. I would love to progress in the near future to be able to use not just the basic multimedia but to use other essential applications for web design and Multimedia at Oxford Brookes University; I can't begin to express how much these courses have enriched my life over the past year

Victoria F Macda

Sabah Abdul Hamid
I have worked and developed a number of community’s projects in the Sudan, Netherland. Since I came to Oxford I did numbers of IT courses as part of Brookes Bridges project to improve my IT skills, then I have worked as volunteer IT tutor at Northway IT Centre where I started as a volunteer in mid 2010 then with Mind and was later offered temporary contract at MIND to start group sessions. Through theses projects I have been supporting clients to overcome barriers to inclusion on a one to one and group basis. This has included clients from diverse cultures and professional background with interest in gaining skills for life. This year I have passed my ILETt exam hope to obtain a grant or sponsorship to start soon MA program at Oxford Brookes University
Sabah

I believe that learning should be fun and enjoyable, and the opportunity presented to me has not only meant that other people have benefited from having someone to discuss their computer problems with, but has meant that I have made some good friends and had a laugh in the process, whilst helping the wider community with something that we both share a passion for.

The classes provided help those to become better acquainted with the world of technology and computers, and can be a real opportunity for them to develop new skills and gain new experiences. This is a chance to try something new, and have fun doing it.

I got involved with Northway IT through being a student at Oxford Brookes. When I received an email asking for volunteers, the idea appealed to me because I have done voluntary work in the past and
knew how fun and fulfilling it could be. I was also interested in learning new skills, gaining new experiences and adding something different to my C.V.

Having said this, I never thought I would enjoy it as much as I have done. It is lovely to see the people I have got to know grow in confidence and achieve new skills. Many students have gone on to buy their own computers, keep in touch with friends and family via email or Skype, record their life-stories and/or design posters or newsletters. Here, we tailor the course to the needs and interests of each individual and we take things at a pace they feel happy with. As well as being a productive learning environment it is also a great way to make new friends. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming
and I have met some lovely people.