1 Starting from Scratch
When students first come to The Potten Computer School, they often ask us to help them buy their first computer…so Lesson 1 consists of internet research on which computer best suits their needs. Computer chosen and bought, we advise them on how to get their internet connection and help them set the computer up at home.
2 Keeping in touch
With family and friends scattered all around, keeping in touch by email is essential. An email address is also used for online shopping, booking holidays, organizing theatre visits…the list is endless. Thus, one of our most popular first courses combines Internet & Email, including Skype, for free internet calls.
3 Getting confident
Even when students have had a computer for a while, they still have questions about how to use them effectively. Our Using the Computer courses teach students what to do with updates, how to manage their files and folders, how to create a personalized desktop, how to make the computer secure…in other words, how to take control and feel confident.
4 Making the most of digital photos
Digital cameras have made photography more accessible to all. Our Digital Photography course teaches students how to download photos, sort them into albums, edit, create collages, make web albums and share photos with friends and family. At an advanced level, students use Photoshop Elements for creative, exciting photo projects.
5 Running a small business
Being able to use a computer effectively can make a world of difference to small business owners: setting up a website, using social media, creating publicity such as flyers and posters, book-keeping…the list can be quite daunting. Students tell us what their priorities are so we can design a course to help them learn all the skills they need to make their business easier to run.
6 Finding a new job
Obviously, not everyone wants to be self-employed. Some people want to return to previous jobs after a break, or are looking for a new job altogether. When updating skills, it is a great idea to get a qualification to prove it. Our most popular qualification course is for the widely-accepted ECDL (European Computer Driving License) with an option to continue onto the Advanced ECDL.
7 Starting Young
Our youngest students love computers, and are always full of creative ideas. Our Art packages, Photography and PowerPoint courses, to name just a few, are always popular. Having said that, a great way to give children a head start at school is for them to learn how to Touch Type…..not a bad idea for adults either.
8 Preparing for school exams
Older school children can also benefit from lessons at The Potten Computer School as we offer tuition in Computer Studies, Administration and Maths at Intermediate 1 &2 and Standard Grade.
9 Creating a Bespoke Course
Unlike most computer training schools, we design each student’s course to suit. Rather than having to fit into a pre-defined course, our students can tell us what their priorities are and what they want to concentrate on.
10 Choosing lesson times
The Potten Computer School is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10.00am to 6.30pm (8.00pm Wednesdays). Students choose how often to attend and when. Whatever time they choose, they are never with more than 2 other students…making sure that the hour is profitable.
This article was originally written for publication in the Portobello Local, a free monthly magazine created by Rosalind Evans.
For inclusion in her magazine, contact: rosalind@evansindependent.co.uk
