Inmates at Parc Prison in Bridgend have been taking advantage of opportunities to learn over the internet thanks to a European Social Fund project set up in partnership with learndirect.
Head of learndirect in Wales, Jeff Greenidge, presents Alton Watson with his learndirect achievement certificate at Parc Prison
Prisoners are encouraged to follow learndirect courses on e-learning pods placed throughout the prison wings. Prisoners can do their learning in their free time, without missing out on other structured activities and can choose from a wide range of courses offered by learndirect.
E-learning Manager at Parc Prison, Sean Yarranton said: “Online learning is new to many of our learners and it has a number of benefits for us here at Parc Prison. Individuals can take a fresh approach to learning, free from the baggage of past learning experiences. The flexibility of learndirect is a key strength,
enabling learners to progress at their own pace and convenience and continue with their learning upon release.
“By placing the e-learning pods throughout the prison, we are giving inmates the choice and the opportunity to develop new skills and gain qualifications which will strengthen their employment prospects upon leaving.”
Alton Watson, a 29 year
old prisoner at Parc Prison, has completed
almost a dozen learndirect
courses. He said: “Online learning
allows me to work in a
relaxed environment and build the skills and knowledge to help me in the outside world.
“I have worked through a number of IT courses with learndirect, including ECDL part 1 and 2, desk top publishing and HTML internet site development. I have gained new skills and built up a number of qualifications. I have really enjoyed the learning offered here and have just applied for a place at the University College of Wales to do a HNC Computer Studies course starting in September.
“My ultimate goal is to be a web designer and the learndirect programme here at Parc Prison has helped me a great deal in preparing for this.”
Head of learndirect in Wales, Jeff Greenidge said: “It is great to see Alton using learndirect to develop his strengths. I wish him the best of luck with his future studies and hope that his story will encourage many others to learn and develop new skills.”
