The W5 LIFE team recently hosted the Digital Skills for Life & Work programme, a free accredited digital training course funded through the OCN Learning Grant and delivered in partnership with Queens Community & Place (QCaP) and the Market Development Association (MDA).
Designed to support adults who may be economically inactive or digitally excluded, the programme allowed participants to build their digital confidence, strengthen their employability skills and take positive steps towards further learning, training and employment opportunities.
Supporting Adult Learners
Delivered over three engaging sessions at W5 LIFE, the programme brought together adult learners from Belfast and the surrounding area to develop practical digital skills in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Participants gained hands-on experience with essential workplace technologies, including Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel and Word, while also while also exploring Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it can be used to support everyday tasks, learning and work. Through interactive activities and guided learning, participants developed a greater understanding of the digital tools that play an important role in how we communicate, learn and work.
Aligned to the OCN NI Level 2 Award in Digital Skills for Life and Work - Using Technology to Create and Edit Information, the programme provided learners with the opportunity to work towards an accredited qualification while building valuable skills that support future progression.
Exploring Digital Skills and AI
While developing technical knowledge was a key focus, the programme also helped participants strengthen a range of essential employability skills.
Throughout the sessions, learners built confidence in their abilities while developing communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills. The small-group format created a welcoming learning environment where participants felt comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas and supporting each other as they progressed through the programme.
The programme concluded with a special wrap-up session and award ceremony, providing an opportunity to celebrate the hard work and achievements of everyone involved.
Over the course of the sessions, participants demonstrated significant progress in their digital skills and confidence. Through practical activities, assessments, and reflective discussions, learners gained a clearer understanding of how digital skills can support both personal development and future career aspirations.
Creating Pathways for the Future
The Digital Skills for Life & Work programme showcased the powerful impact that accessible, community-focused learning opportunities can have in helping to tackle digital exclusion and create pathways to new opportunities.
Through the support of the OCN Learning Grant and the collaborative partnership between W5 LIFE, Queens Community & Place and the Market Development Association, participants were able to access free accredited training designed to remove barriers to learning and support progression into further education, volunteering and employment.
The programme was a celebration of learning, confidence and opportunity, demonstrating how developing digital skills can open doors, empower individuals and help people take the next steps towards achieving their goals.