From fixing computers to helping people feel confident using them
I began working in the Cairns computer industry, spending several years repairing, building and supporting computers.
Over time, I realised the part of the job I enjoyed most wasn’t simply fixing technology. It was helping people understand what was happening and showing them how to do things for themselves.
That gradually changed the direction of my work from solving problems for people to helping them feel more confident using their own computer.
One of my earliest teaching experiences was with an older client who would stop me whenever I skipped over a small step that seemed obvious to me.
It taught me something that still shapes the way I teach today: good computer teaching means assuming nothing.
Tasks are broken into small steps, computer terms are explained in plain language, and there is plenty of time to practise. The goal is not for me to complete the task for you, but to help you understand how to do it yourself.
While living in South East Queensland, I created Lockyer Valley Computer Lessons and provided personalised one-on-one computer tuition.
Working with students there taught me even more about how differently people learn. Some need more repetition, some prefer written instructions, some learn best by doing, and sometimes an explanation simply needs to be approached a different way.
Those experiences helped shape the personalised teaching approach I use today.
I’ve now returned home to Cairns and created Cairns Friendly Computer Lessons to continue doing the part of technology work I enjoy most: teaching.
My aim is to offer seniors in the Cairns community calm, practical and personalised computer learning that builds real confidence and independence.
We start with where you are now, focus on what matters to you, and work forward one step at a time.