Frome’s MP, Anna Sabine, was “amazed but not surprised” when she visited the Cheese & Grain to see Frome Community Education’s IT Hub, and to receive a brochure of the 57 classes that are running in Frome this term.
Chatting with FCE chair, Malcolm Lloyd, and IT Hub tutor, Richard Ackroyd, Anna said that she had not heard of Frome Community Education before, but said, “I will be telling everyone about it now. I can’t believe that more towns aren’t doing the same. This idea is so brilliant.”
This idea is, of course, running adult education classes that are affordable and aren’t supported by the public purse. The directors of FCE are all volunteers so this helps keep the costs to a minimum. The area is also full of people with a huge variety of skills that they wish to share with others by tutoring courses, and the people of Frome and surrounding area are keen to learn and socialise with one another. With subjects ranging from Geology to Yoga and Art to Artificial Intelligence, there really is something for everyone.
The Cheese and Grain also houses the IT Hub run by Richard Ackroyd on behalf of Frome Community Education. This is a free “drop in” service for those who struggle with computers (either how they work or accessing them in the first place). Current students have help with filling in forms, setting up their e-mail accounts, installing apps, applying for jobs and dealing with the business of modern “on-line” life. There is also support for those who need help with maths and English. The IT Hub has received financial support from Frome Town Council and various charities in the past. When these dry up, the sessions are funded by FCE themselves.
Anna chatted with Wendy who needed help accessing emails on her tablet and who was receiving help from Taba, one of three volunteers who assist Richard in the IT Hub. Sessions are run every Monday and Wednesday morning from 10-12 noon and are free.
“Without doubt,” said Anna, “this is one of the things that make Frome such a special place to live – the community helping others to such good effect. We are so fortunate in Frome.” Now that Anna knows all about Frome Community Education she has promised to “spread the word”.
Courses are now available to book online for Frome Community Education’s Summer Term. For more information about the range of arts & crafts, health & wellbeing, languages and words and culture courses that will be available from 22nd April, pick up a brochure from the Cheese & Grain, the library or any number of shops and cafes around Frome. To book, visit www.fromecommed.org.uk or visit the box office and the Cheese & Grain.
Pictured: Anna Sabine, MP with volunteers Taba Mollinson and Heather Burton and student Wendy Reynolds.
