Whether you’re looking to improve your digital skills for work, gain confidence using a computer, or simply want to feel more comfortable with everyday technology, our Basic IT Skills course is designed to help adults take that first step.
For many people, returning to education can feel daunting. You may not have been in a classroom for years, or perhaps your previous experience of school wasn’t a positive one. At EKC Training, we understand that. That’s why our supportive learning environment is designed specifically for adults aged 19 and over, helping you build confidence at your own pace while developing practical digital skills you’ll use in everyday life.
We spoke to Kathleen Handley, ICT Tutor at EKC Training Canterbury Centre, to find out more about what learners can expect from the course and why adult education can be such a life-changing experience.
Learn practical digital skills for everyday life
Our Basic IT Skills course focuses on the digital skills that many employers now expect, while also helping learners become more confident using technology in their daily lives.
Throughout the course, learners develop practical knowledge of Microsoft Office programmes including Word, PowerPoint and introductory Excel, alongside essential skills such as sending emails, organising files and building confidence using computers.
Kathleen explains: “Most of what we teach is basic IT skills, but we really try to focus on skills that are useful in the real world and that help people get into work.”
The course is ideal for adults who have little or no previous IT experience, as well as those who simply want to refresh existing skills before returning to work or progressing into further learning.
It’s about more than just computers
While learners leave with valuable digital skills, Kathleen believes one of the biggest transformations is in their confidence.
Many adults arrive feeling nervous about returning to education, but quickly discover they’re learning alongside people with similar experiences and shared goals.
Throughout the course, learners develop important personal skills, including:
- Building confidence in a classroom environment
- Working independently and as part of a team
- Meeting new people and forming friendships
- Completing tasks with greater confidence
- Becoming more comfortable trying new things
These skills are just as valuable in everyday life as they are in the workplace.
A supportive environment for adult learners
Returning to education as an adult can feel intimidating, particularly if previous experiences at school weren’t positive and Kathleen understands this.
She explains that adult education is very different from school, with smaller class sizes, a relaxed atmosphere and tutors who recognise that everyone learns differently.
“A lot of people come to us feeling really nervous about returning to education because of past experiences at school, but adult education is much more relaxed and supportive.”
Rather than feeling pressured to keep up with everyone else, learners are encouraged to work at a pace that suits them.
The focus isn’t on competition; it’s on building confidence and celebrating progress.
From self-doubt to supporting others
One learner’s journey perfectly demonstrates the difference confidence can make.
When she first joined the course, she found learning overwhelming and would become anxious if she felt she was falling behind. There were times when she considered leaving because she believed she wasn’t capable of completing the course.
With encouragement from her tutor and the support of the class, she continued learning.
By the end of her course, she had grown so much in confidence that she was helping other learners in the classroom.
She’s now progressing onto Entry 3 and continues to develop her skills.
Stories like this are something Kathleen says she sees regularly. Many learners arrive unsure of themselves but leave with increased confidence, new friendships and a renewed belief in what they can achieve.
Where could the course lead?
Every learner’s journey is different.
Some complete their entry-level qualification before moving straight into employment, while others choose to continue their studies and build on the skills they’ve developed.
Learners can progress through Entry Level courses before moving onto Level 1 programmes, including Cyber Security and Progression courses.
EKC Training is also developing new short courses based on learner feedback, with future subjects likely to include Artificial Intelligence (AI), helping adults continue developing skills that are increasingly valuable both in everyday life and the workplace.
It’s never too late to learn
One of the biggest concerns many adults have is whether they’ve left education too late.
Kathleen’s answer is simple.
“You’re never too old to learn something new.”
Learners of all ages attend the course, and everyone is encouraged to learn at their own pace in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Whether your goal is to improve your employment opportunities, gain confidence using technology, or simply prove to yourself that you can do it, our Basic IT Skills course could be the perfect place to start.
If you’ve been thinking about returning to education, there’s no better time to take that first step. With supportive tutors, practical learning and a friendly classroom environment, you’ll gain skills that can open new opportunities and build confidence for the future.
More articles
EKC Training Dover Centre moves to new Bench Street Campus
What you’ll learn on our ‘Get Into Business Administration’ course.
