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Case studies IT skills for Murston Mum... A Murston mum is hoping to get work that fits around her young son, with a little help from her local UK online centre. Karrie Jones, 28, has been going to Murston Community Learning Centre in Kent - a UK online centre - for a few months. She's currently working towards her New CLAIT Diploma. She says: "I found out about IT taster sessions at the centre at my six monthly meeting with Jobcentre Plus. I'm a single mum on income support, and I knew that to get a job that fits in around school hours I needed to get some computer skills. "I'm a qualified care assistant and I've also worked in retail, but the irregular shifts just didn't fit in with Jordan, my eight-year-old, and he's got to be my priority. The fact is that every job nowadays involves IT - even care notes and shop tills are computerised, and I wanted to catch up. Jobcentre Plus put me in touch with Marcella at the Murston Community Learning Centre. "I went along to the first session and really enjoyed it. I haven't looked back since! I'd always liked using the computers at school, but was nervous because I hadn't touched one since I was 14. I soon got the hang of things though, and when Marcella suggested I go on to do CLAIT, I jumped at the chance. "Every Wednesday I take Jordon to school and then head on to the UK online centre. I wouldn't have been able to travel over to the main Canterbury College, so it's great for me. Marcella makes learning fun, and everyone in the group has a laugh - it's a really nice place to learn in. "At first Jordan thought it was a bit strange mum going back to 'school' too, but he's really proud of me and very supportive - he even helps me with my homework! We very recently got a computer at home for us both to use, and it's really nice to be able to share that with him. He uses one all the time at the school, and now I'm going to be able return the favour and help him with his homework - not to mention keep an eye on what he's doing! "My aim is to complete the course and get a nine to five reception or administration job. My confidence is growing every week and I'm actually proud of myself for taking this step. I really wouldn't have been able to do it without the Murston Community Learning Centre and all Marcella's support."
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