Over 20 weeks, this free Digital Skills for English Learners course transformed the digital confidence and capabilities of diverse participants from places as far away as Hong Kong, Russia and Pakistan. 

Facilitated by educator Austin, the course offered students the opportunity to learn practical IT skills, like using AI tools for English practice, verifying email authenticity, creating Google Forms and QR codes, and designing digital content with Canva.

Many entered the programme with limited computer experience and emerged with newfound confidence to engage in modern digital life, whether applying for jobs, advancing in education, or starting small businesses.

One learner said: “This course gave me knowledge to protect my personal data and privacy.” Another added: “Now AI is my 24-hour English teacher—I always ask it questions.”

The impact this course has had went beyond technical knowledge. Two students have already stepped forward to volunteer as teaching assistants in future sessions, while 90% expressed interest in continuing their studies. The course also directly supported learners currently enrolled in ESOL programmes, enhancing their performance and participation.

This programme was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Virgin Money Foundation. Their support enabled access to essential resources, equipment, and instruction that empowered individuals to thrive in an increasingly digitally connected world. The Whiteinch Centre and participants alike are deeply grateful for their investment in community development and education.

This course has proven that when underserved communities are given the tools, time, and trust, they thrive. Plans are underway to scale the course to its refined 10-12 lesson format, empowering even more learners in sessions to come.

Rachel Kyle-Barclay, grants and learning manager at the Virgin Money Foundation, added: “Digital poverty makes life even harder for people and communities who already face more challenges than most. It deepens social inequalities and has a compound effect on poverty, difficulty in accessing essential services and isolation. At the Virgin Money Foundation we support tailored approaches, delivered by trusted local organisations to help tackle this issue head on. We are delighted that the Digital Skills for English Learners pilot has gone so well and had such a positive impact on the individuals who have taken part”.

Debs Allan, communities manager at Whiteinch and Scotstoun Housing Association (WSHA), said: “We are delighted to be able to combine two such fundamental skills as language and digital literacy, supporting local people to integrate and thrive. We are grateful to the Virgin Money Foundation, as this wouldn’t be achievable without their support.”