Luton Learning Centre awards

Achievers Evening at Luton Learning Centre on 17 December celebrated the success of more than 240 students who have achieved IT qualifications, boosting their CVs, career opportunities and confidence.

David Pridmore, Deputy Principal and Director of Bedford College, said:
“Thanks to all staff for their commitment and dedication to the work of the Luton Learning Centre.  Your efforts are recognised tonight in the success of the learners who have achieved so much.”

Presenting certificates to learners, Esther Rantzen, campaigner, journalist, president and founder of Childline and prospective MP for Luton South, added:

“I want to congratulate all staff and learners on the achievement of mastering the art of computer science.  

“Through these skills not only have you given yourselves new opportunities, skills and new careers but it has made me feel perhaps I can sign up here!

“I am here because I love Luton - I think it is terrific.  I fell in love with it at first sight.  Congratulations on your home town and on your success at the Luton Learning Centre.”

Luton Learning Centre is an important part of Bedford College's success and this year has been outstanding.  In January Bedford College achieved outstanding Ofsted, in June Beacon status and in August Shuttleworth College became part of Bedford College.  

As part of Bedford College, the Learning Centres are fully equipped IT centres set up on the doorsteps of local people in Bedford, Luton and Rushden.  They offer people from all cultural backgrounds, abilities and ages the chance to tap into IT courses to improve their skills and life or career opportunities.  

With over 550 people currently studying across all three Learning Centres, a variety of courses are on offer including Literacy and Numeracy, Introduction to Computers ITQ (Level 2 qualification) and short courses including Web Design and Photo Editing.

Student successes

Nuri Abdus and sister Shamimum Abdus (left, with Esther):

Nuri said:  “I came here because I needed a qualification that was recognised so that I could better my career prospects.  And that has happened!  I applied for a job and the recruitment panel were impressed that I had studied here.  I am delighted to have achieved success in my studies and will be starting a new job as Assessment Co-ordinator at Dunstable Learning Centre.”

Sham added:  “I feel much more confident now using the computer and will be upgrading my qualification.  The Bright Learning Solution study books were really good and easy to follow.  I was able to learn at my own pace and the tutors were very supportive.”

Victoria Chinyani and husband Nesbert:

Victoria explained that she began a social work degree at Wiltshire University last year and wanted to make sure that she had the computer skills for her studies.

She said:  “This has really helped me with my course at University where I used skills in presentation and graphics for assignments - and achieved high marks.

“When qualified I will continue to use these skills to do presentations in the field.  

“It has really helped me gain confidence and with my studies at university.”

Nesbert, also studying Modern Telecommunications at the University of Bedfordshire, added:

“I had learnt Word Perfect in 1982 but it has changed so much since then and I needed to upgrade my skills.

“I now use skills I have learnt here to do assignments for University and I feel very confident with the software.  The tutors were extremely helpful and I appreciate that.”

Nina Nawrocka:

“I really enjoyed the course and the flexibility that meant I could choose when to study to suit me.  The people working here are very friendly and every time you call them over they are really supportive and helpful.

“I have completed my course but was invited back to upgrade to Word 2007.  It am impressed that the Learning Centre is still in touch with me and encouraging me to do more.”

Halina Grabowska:

“It has been very useful to use the computer skills I have learnt here at home and I will be upgrading my qualification to Word 2007.  I have studied ITQ2 in modules for word, databases and spreadsheets.  

“Everyone here is so friendly and supportive.  I like the fact that they are still in touch with me and want me to do well.”

Maureen Stephens was delighted to win a laptop in a prize draw for students, sponsored by Bright Learning Solutions, who assist Bedford College in running the Learning Centres.