ComputerXplorers: Computer gains

Along with our lungs and mobile phone features, a lot of us use just 20 per cent of the available potential when using computers!

Children today are surrounded by technology; digital cameras, Sky Plus and Wii to name but a few, but they largely use computers for the most basic functions of accessing the internet, playing games or chatting with their friends. Conversely, some children don't have access at home to a computer or connection to the internet, and tend to associate information and communications technology (ICT) with creating word documents in Science or Powerpoint slides in English at school.

ComputerXplorers shows children a different side to technology - that it's fun when you know how! In small groups of 10-12, children learn that computers are exciting learning tools, empowering them to make films and animated slideshows, design video games or produce a comic - activities that satisfy and develop creativity while extending their knowledge and use of ICT. Problem solving, critical thinking and team working skills are very useful by-products of participation.

Most importantly, the children have a lot of fun - after school yet still on school premises, the children interact with adults other than their teachers or parents, work together on projects with their friends, and mix with children they would not usually in the course of a school day.

For parents, a ComputerXplorers after school technology club provides a safe place for their children to enjoy themselves while learning new skills and making new friends. For schools, a technology club makes a welcome contribution to the menu of activities and enhances a school's existing extended hours provision. Offering a technology club after school is very simple, as ComputerXplorers provides everything needed to run the club including trained, CRB-checked instructors, software, peripherals and all other equipment.

The ComputerXplorers programme can also help schools extend their ICT facilities to the wider community. With the company's exciting, structured activities, holiday camps for children are a popular service for working parents, and also offer much-needed respite for parents at home during long holidays!

Local people interested in developing skills in basic computer operations, digital scrapbooking and using ebay and paypal can sign up to special adult courses held during the holidays and other out-of-school time, and, as a social opportunity for mums, dads, grandparents and carers to get to know one another, it places the school at the heart of the community.

ComputerXplorers has franchises in Berkshire, Norfolk, South Midlands, South Birmingham, Sussex, South Wales, Thames Valley, Portsmouth, Bromley and South East London and are looking for ambitious and enthusiastic people who want to make a difference by owning their own business and are prepared to work hard to achieve success, independence and security.

Investment level: £24,500 + VAT; 3rd stage pilot programme available at £18,750 + VAT
Business type: Childrens computer tuition
Website: www.computerxplorers.co.uk.
Email: lsankey@computerxplorers.co.uk
Franchise contact: Lauren Sankey