Barton learning day should be just the job

The Barton Learning Fayre will be held at the Neighbourhood Centre, on Saturday September 17.

Taster sessions for courses such as computer training, and helping in schools, will be laid on alongside reading and writing skills, photography and budgeting workshops.

Organiser and community development coordinator Alan Foulkes said he hoped estate residents would make the most of the day.

He said: ”It will be a chance to find out about courses, most of them free, that will be on offer in Barton and elsewhere.

“Residents will be able to sign up to courses such as computer training, helping in schools, DIY and health and beauty.

“Free taster sessions such as health and beauty and DIY are also being planned for the day.”

Mr Foulkes said a new Community Champion Team, made up of residents who are taking a lead in developing local learning opportunities, will also be on hand to provide an example to others interested in furthering their education or gaining skills.

Community Champion, Lisa Birch, from Watermill Way, Barton, took up basic learning courses two years ago, and she is soon to take up a certificate in higher education at Ruskin College.

She said: “Taking up learning can be a huge confidence booster and open up opportunities you never thought possible.”

According to the Department of Communities and Local Government Indices of Deprivation 20 neighbourhoods in Oxford and Banbury are among the 10 per cent most deprived in England for Education, Skills and Training.

Barton is in the bottom two per cent of the whole country.

Mr Foulkes said he was confident the day would offer people in Barton the chance to turn that around.

He said: “We have been working with local learning providers to give people a chance and to encourage them to take up learning opportunities.”

awilliams@oxfordmail.co.uk l For further information contact Alan Foulkes at Barton Neighbourhood Centre on 07772466041 or Lisa Birch on 07591875736