Get digital skills for life with these free local classes

Technology is something that is constantly evolving, and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed with all the applications and equipment available to us.

If you feel like this, then you’re not alone. Recent studies have shown that as many as 20% of adults have limited or no digital skills, which can make it challenging to navigate life in a digital-first world. 

7-11 November is Lifelong Learning Week, and we’re partnering with West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Bradford Council to host a series of free taster sessions for adults of all abilities.

But by learning just a few simple skills, you’ll have access to a whole world of resources you may not have previously considered. Here are just some of the ways expanding your digital skills can improve your everyday life.

Take your job search online

It is estimated that around 180,000-200,000 jobs are posted online every week in the UK, meaning that if you’re wanting to get ahead in your job search, accessing online application services is vital. 

Online platforms also help to ensure you put your best foot forward when completing an application. Most platforms allow you to use spell check and forms are often coded to ensure you don’t accidentally miss out any sections. 

There are many ways you can find job adverts online, such as through social media and recruiting sites. Some sites will even help you create a CV and let you store it in your account, so that you can apply for jobs quickly and easily. 

If you are currently looking for employment, then Keighley Job Centre is hosting a Digital support for job searching session to help you take your first steps into online job hunting. 

Enhance your child’s learning experience

Many of us learned during lockdown that it can be challenging to support your child’s numeracy education, particularly as the methods students use nowadays may have changed since you were at school.

Luckily, there are some fantastic interactive websites that aim to support mathematics skills and help parents to help their children with numeracy.

Unsure where to start? Come along to the Maths support using digital devices session for an introduction to some of these resources and how you can access them from your mobile, tablet or computer. 

Access the right support for you

We can all feel anxious, low and stressed sometimes and it can be difficult to know where to turn when you need mental health advice.

This is particularly true in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, with many people stuck on lengthy waiting lists or struggling to make an appointment to access face-to-face support.

If you or someone you know are in this position, there are lots of ways to get support for your mental health online. Support ranges from online therapy, counselling and chatlines to support forums, mindfulness exercises and more.

Mental health support at Victoria Primary School

If your child attends Victoria Primary School in Keighley, then you’re invited to attend a short Mental health support using digital devices session which will explain how to access online support and services. 

By participating in any of the sessions listed above, you will discover a handful of tips that will transform your everyday life for the better. Why not make Lifelong Learning Week the time to finally get tech-savvy! 

We hope to see you there!

All the sessions mentioned above are available to learners aged 19+ of all abilities, and are being held at various times and locations across Keighley and West Yorkshire. 

A full programme of the Lifelong Learning Week’s events and further information can be found here.