Caroline Graham on trainees’ success in completing a specialist IT refurbishment training programme
Four trainees have successfully completed a specialist IT refurbishment training programme designed to help people facing barriers to employment.
The group are the latest graduates of the Tech 10 programme, run by 2econd Chance, a charity based in Hendon that trains and creates employment pathways for people who may struggle with traditional routes into the workplace.
The course, accredited by the British Computer Society, saw participants complete 50 hours of training in laptop, computer and phone repair, alongside essential Microsoft Office skills including Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
The course has been expanded over the past year to include modules on workplace soft skills such as time management, CV writing, meeting etiquette and the use of artificial intelligence — reflecting the charity’s evolution from its roots as a computer recycling organisation into one focused on people’s skills and development.
The graduates were celebrated at a special ceremony at the charity’s workspace on 29th June.
Trainee Safa said the course had given her a new sense of direction. “I really enjoyed learning about computers,” she said. “The quizzes and reflection sheets were really good to help us memorise all the learning. The course has helped me a lot and helped me think about my career path.”
Fellow trainee Kayden said the technical modules were a highlight. “I really enjoyed learning about the hard drives and really enjoyed the course, especially the AI modules and how people use AI,” he said.
For Elliot, the group dynamic was key to the experience. “I’m glad we had the chance to learn all together,” he added.
Charity co-founder Nigel Canin said: “While we began as a computer recycling charity, our focus is firmly centred on people and helping those who’ve been excluded from traditional work opportunities to build skills and confidence in the workplace.
“Well done to our trainees — you’ve worked so hard and learned a lot. We wish you all the best for the next steps in your journey.”
2econd Chance supports NEET adults and young people aged 16-25 with an Education Health Care Plan who have been long-term excluded from the workplace.
The charity collects unwanted laptops and devices from people, local businesses and organisations. These are then refurbished by trainees before being donated to people who access to digital technology, or sold at affordable prices online to fund more training places.
It has also expanded its programmes and launched ReFramed — a picture framing service where people with mental health challenges are taught how to frame pictures as a way to build confidence and a sense of purpose. All proceeds from framing and sales go directly to back to the charity.
To donate any unwanted computers, laptops, phones or picture frames please email [email protected]
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