Do you want to acquire and develop computer skills? Then Age Concern Bristol’s Introduction To Computing course could be just the thing.

The main aim of this five week course is to teach the basic skills of computing such as word processing, learning how to surf the internet as well as using email and staying safe online. The classes are kept small, with just five participants, thereby guarantying individual attention from course tutor and volunteer Nick Markovits. There is a relaxed feel to the classes, with students able to learn at their own pace. Being in the same age range as several course members, students find Nick easy to relate to

Together with David Outtram, Age Concern Bristol’s Practical Services Manager, Nick has agreed a course outline and set up a wireless network. Osborne Clarke Solicitors have generously donated six Toshiba laptop computers to the project which are connected to the network.

One of the students present, Bob Farr, was on holiday in Thailand when a chance conversation about computer courses run by Age Concern Leicester set him thinking about signing up for the Age Concern Bristol sessions. He enjoyed the experience of “learning something new and looking up information about boxing”, a favourite sport of his.

As Nick pointed out, it is more important that “everyone can ask questions and try out ideas, following up later with the detailed notes provided.” Testimony to this are the very positive comments from past students. Mavis Travis, 91, said: “I would advise anyone who lives on their own to give computing a go, it’s wonderful. With a computer you’re never lonely or sidelined – you can get daily news and benefit from a fresh interest. Coming along to the classes also puts you in contact with people.” As the students said, it is money well spent at just £2 per session!

Sarah Box