Whizz-kids at Highgate School giving older generation helping hand by running technology sessions
Donal Kelleher, regular attendee and ex-Highgate School student, with two student volunteers at the first 'coffee and computers' session of the term. Photo by Highgate School - Credit: Archant
Whizz-kids are giving the older generation a helping hand at Highgate School by running a technology club for ex-students.
These returning pupils, supervised by student volunteers, are taught computer skills and are able to develop their knowledge of information technology in an informal setting, as well as being able to gain independence and take full advantage of everything computers have to offer.
The scheme is run together with the Haringey-wide ‘coffee and computers’ voluntary group, which started in 2015 as a Highgate Neighbourhood Forum project.
Donal Kelleher, former Highgate School students and a regular attendee, said: “The students at Highgate are always extremely helpful and make you feel comfortable.
“They are very helpful and are always happy to repeat explanations until you are confident that you understand the explanation.
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“It is very welcoming to be greeted at the gate to the school. I am looking forward to the next session.”
Following the success of the first session earlier this month, the club will be running three additional workshops throughout the winter term, on Wednesday, October 11, Friday, November 10 and Wednesday, December 13. The sessions start at 4pm, with the entrance to the library located via the main school gates on North Road.
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Karen Norris, assistant to the director of community partnerships and the Highgate School teacher who supervises the programme, added: “We want to act as an exemplar to our pupils, to make them aware of the advantaged education they are receiving, to encourage them to lead transformative lives in society, and gain the personal experience of making a difference themselves.
“Coffee and computers is a working example of this ambition; to which I’d add that the students, besides enjoying the role-reversal of being teachers themselves, derive great personal satisfaction and enjoyment from the programme.”
There are also monthly sessions held in Crouch End at Cape Adventure and Hornsey Library, as well as at Jacksons Lane Community Centre and Highgate Society.
To find out more e-mail info@coffeecomputers.org.
