Computer classes and digital support

Using a computer can open up a whole range of opportunities to you, especially if you are using the Internet and email.


Getting online and digital skills support in Newcastle

There are a range of computer classes and courses available in Newcastle. There are classes for people with little or no experience and for those who are familiar with computer, but want to learn more.

Get online Newcastle offer telephone support and computer courses ranging from the basics to City and Guilds qualifications. Courses include: Online Basics, Intro to Microsoft Office, Techy tea party where you can help with your device set up. These are run face to face at Cruddas Park Library and City Library.

Elders Council of Newcastle work in partnership with Northumbria Students Union on Project ICE  which includes drop in IT classes. You can bring along your own equipment such as laptops, iPads or digital cameras to learn more about how to use your device or practice on one of their computers. They can help you to develop your skills and confidence in using computers and the internet. Weekly sessions run during term time, September to April.

Search run computer classes and a computer club for people aged 50 and over. Everyone is welcome, including complete beginners. The sessions are tailored to meet your interests. You just need to tell the tutor what you want to learn.

Chinese Centre has a series of classes available at all levels and abilities for wider BAME communities.

Friends Action North East run workshops on getting online tailored to the needs of people with autism or a learning disability

Action Foundation offer digital inclusion workshops to refugees and migrants

Newcastle Vision Support provide practical support for people with sight loss including: IT training on iPads, tablets, laptops, computers and accessibility options.  They also offer support on specialist software, such as Supernova.

Workers Educational Association (WEA)  offer a wide range of courses on topics as varied as writing and art to beginners and more advanced computer classes.  They also offer the ESOL for employability courses. There is a fee for most courses. Courses may be online or face to face at a location in the North East.

Online Centres Network has a map that helps people find computers or classes including in Newcastle.  Search for the nearest centre to you on their website and contact the provider.

Lifelong learning article on InformationNOW has more information on courses available in Newcastle.

First Step North East helps migrant women living in Newcastle’s West End to take part in opportunities to learn and increase their confidence. They offer computer skills sessions. Creche available.

The Wise Group can help unemployed people aged 16 to 66 years old living in Newcastle and North Tyneside with digital and I.T. skills. This is part of their wellbeing and digital skills mentoring


Computer support at home

We are Digital provide computer and internet training in the home.

Ability Net is a national network of volunteers who provide free computer support to disabled people. They can visit you in your own home, or in another location such as a care home or a day centre. The volunteers can solve hardware and software problems, such as installing new equipment, as well as helping you to gain confidence in using a computer. This could be by getting connected to the Internet and using email, or getting you started with standard packages such as word processing.


Online Courses

Learn My Wayoffer useful short online courses which you can work through online. You can learn the basics of computers and the internet and then you can start learn a little bit more. Whether you want to chat to family and friends on Facebook, share digital photographs, learn how to shop online, find out how to use online banking, or look for a job  they have a short course to help you do it.

GCF LearnFree.org offers125 free online tutorials. This includes e mail, internet, Microsoft office, maths, reading, career planning and digital skills

Digital Unite has a huge range of free learning guides to help people with using computers, the internet, tablets and other mobile devices. The easy-to-follow guides cover the essential topics from getting started with a mouse and keyboard to web browsing, emailing, shopping online and internet safety.

Citizens Online run online events, provide a free digital support helpline and a trained team of digital champions who will call you back and offer friendly, patient support over the phone.

Media Savvy CIC run digital skills courses including, introduction to computers, Social Media, eSafety, Employability and Money Matters.


Using the Internet

Further information and support on using the internet can be found on Information Now;


Other Useful Organisations and Information

  • Getting online and digital equipment article on InformationNOW. Find out how you can access free or low cost equipment and internet
  • Finding reliable tradespeople article on InformationNOW if you need help with installing phonelines or broadband
  • Making the most of the internet – Age UK’s guide
  • ReciteME reads information in languages and audio files, as well as text sizing.  Read our article on tailoring the site to your needs using this new technology.
  • Computer
  • FurbdIT is a partnership working to reduce digital poverty. They collect unwanted devices and IT equipment, refurbish it and breathe new life into it for community benefit.
  • Digital Pathfinders helps SMEs, charities and social enterprises across Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland become more successful and resilient by adopting digital technology.
  • Good Things Foundation aim to combat digital and social exclusion across the country. They co-ordinate the Online Centres Network.

Last updated: November 25, 2024