Bann-tastic achievements!

A total of 208 certificates were awarded to students who had successfully completed courses offered by West Bann. Colm Henry, a director at West Bann Development and well-known local businessman, began the certificate presentation by paying tribute to George Lapsley and David McClarty, two of West Bann’s much loved and very well respected directors, who sadly passed away in recent months.

Both David and George had worked tirelessly with the centre and had contributed a great deal in making West Bann what it is today.

The centre continues to be well used by a diverse section of the local population, including members of the Polish and Asian communities and offers all manner of IT, Educational and Recreational courses and activities to suit all ages and abilities, from infants to the more senior citizens.

Good Morning Causeway, a free telephone alert service for older and vulnerable people, is just one of the services provided in the Centre and has offered volunteering opportunities to some wonderful people who wish to make a difference. In addition there is a wide range of organisations, groups and statutory agencies that regularly utilise the excellent facilities.

November 2013 saw the introduction of the ‘I’M Happy Project’, which was delivered in partnership between West Bann Development and the University of Ulster.

The project offered bite-sized computer-based activities which provided learners with an opportunity to develop various IT based skills such as Web Development, Mobile App Development, Robotics and Social Media. The modules are formally accredited by the University of Ulster and it is hoped that the course will inspire students to further their education and possibly progress to University.

The qualifications achieved by students over the past year include; Computers for Absolute Beginners (16), Internet and E:Mail for Beginners (9), European Computer Driving Licence (13), OCR Level 2 Word/Text Processing (17), OCR Level 1 Certificate in Bookkeeping (14), OCR Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping/Accounting (11), City & Guilds Level 2 Award in Bookkeeping (1), Certificate in Emergency First Aid at Work (25), CIEH Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering (13), City & Guilds Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering (18), Designated Officer Training in Safeguarding Children (5), Volunteer Recognition Award (12), Level 2 Diploma for Children’s Care, Learning and Development (11).

Also presented were certificates for each of the modules in the I’m Happy Project which was delivered in partnership with the University of Ulster. These included Multi Media Web Development (8), Mobile App Development (13), Robotics (13) and Effective Social Media (9).

The evening proved to be a great success with many delighted students catching up with friends and celebrating their achievements together. It was rounded off by a delicious supper of pancakes, scones, tray bakes, tea and coffee.

The next term of computer, educational and recreational courses at West Bann Development commences from mid-September.

Anyone requiring more information about any of the upcoming courses should contact West Bann Development on 028 7032 7859.