18/07/2026
π£ Meet Our Learners! β Catherine McNamara, Digital Skills
Hi, Iβm Catherine π
A couple of years ago, if you'd asked me about computers or technology, I would have told you I was completely technophobic.
I'm 49 years old, a full-time carer, and for most of my life I've avoided technology wherever possible. I was one of the last of my friends to get a mobile phone, and whenever I got a new device, I'd always rely on friends or family to set it up for me. Technology had always felt intimidating, and my experiences with computers at school didn't help. Lessons were very different back then, the systems were slow, and I often struggled to stay focused.
My journey started when I popped into Hull Training and Adult Education to ask about courses. My son and daughter, who both have additional needs, were interested in developing their own digital skills too. My son has Asperger's and, although he can build computers, he didn't have any recognised qualifications to support his skills. My daughter has autism and was keen to learn too, so we decided it would be a great opportunity to learn together as a family.
My son, Alex, and daughter, Sophia, have now both achieved their Level 2 qualification, and I have worked my way through Entry Level 3, Level 1 and then now on to Level 2 myself.
I'll never forget walking into my first lesson. I was so nervous that I just wanted to cry. I was terrified of doing something wrong or not being able to keep up. But over time, with the support of my tutor, Mark, and the rest of the class, those fears started to disappear.
Now, technology doesn't feel scary anymore. It's no longer intimidating, and I actually look forward to coming to lessons. The progress I've made over the last two years is something I'm really proud of. Not only have I gained valuable digital skills, but I've also gained confidence in myself and my ability to learn.
The course has had a huge impact on my life. Alongside being a full-time carer, I also volunteer at a local immigration law charity. Having stronger digital skills means I can support my work much more effectively, and I'm preparing to study immigration law in the future, much of which I'll need to complete independently at home. Thanks to this course, I feel far more confident about taking on that challenge.
It's also given me reassurance for the future. You never know what life might bring, and it's important to have skills and opportunities behind you. These qualifications have opened doors that I never thought possible and given me the confidence to explore new opportunities.
If you're anything like I was and feel nervous about technology, I'd say: give it a go. Find the courage to take that first step. It might feel daunting at first, but it's worth challenging yourself. You may surprise yourself with what you can achieve.
Thinking about developing your own skills?
Find out more or book a FREE online assessment to discover the right starting point for our Maths, English and Digital courses.
Visit our Adult Learning page to get started: π
https://hcctraining.ac.uk/adults
