TechMates Recognised with AQA Level 3 Awards
The TechMate programme continues to empower residents by building digital confidence, improving access to online services and reducing digital exclusion. Central to this success are its committed volunteers. This case study celebrates three dedicated TechMates - Kelly, Ian and Ken - who have recently achieved their AQA Level 3 Unit Award Scheme, recognising their advanced digital support skills and meaningful contribution to the community.
Volunteer profiles and achievements
Kelly: Building confidence through empathy
Kelly joined TechMates with a passion for helping people who feel left behind by technology. Her experience as a business analyst along with a calm and reassuring manner quickly made her a trusted guide for learners who lacked confidence online.
Key contributions
- Supported residents who felt unsure about using technology, guiding them to access the essential online services they rely on
- Explained each step clearly and simply, helping learners understand not just what to do but why it matters and how digital tools can make everyday life easier
- Showed strong reflective practice and problem‑solving skills, safely introducing residents to AI tools in a supportive learning environment
Kelly's reflection
I enjoy meeting new people through volunteering. I also like discussing technical issues with other volunteers and sharing different ideas and perspectives.
Ian: Supporting digital confidence and independence
Ian joined the programme with a wealth of technical knowledge from his hobby in computer networks.
Key contributions
- Supported residents in researching their family history using digital skills
- Worked with a resident who depends on a Synapptic device, guiding her step by step until she felt confident. Ian then asked her to demonstrate the tasks back to him, helping identify any remaining support needs while reinforcing her learning
- Actively invested time in learning new apps and techniques that are unfamiliar to better support others with confidence and accuracy
Ian's reflection
I enjoy helping people become more digitally able and I have learned a lot too. Joining TechMates really was a win – win for me!
Ken: Empowering social connection
Ken joined TechMates after seeing how many people felt isolated without digital tools. His friendly approach and patience made him a natural at helping learners reconnect with loved ones.
Key contributions
- Listened deeply to the needs of his learners which helped Ken create bespoke learner journeys linked to topics of interest
- Assisted learners with accessibility needs by adjusting device settings to suit their preferences
- Helped residents use messaging and social media platforms to stay connected with family, friends and local communities, reducing feelings of isolation
Ken's reflection
I enjoy the 'lightbulb moments' when a learner realises technology can solve a real problem for them - like finally finding that lost friend or successfully formatting their book draft.
Why their achievement matters
The AQA Level 3 Unit Award Scheme recognises advanced digital knowledge, consistent safeguarding practice and the ability to provide supportive one‑to‑one digital guidance. For the TechMate programme, volunteers like Kelly, Ian and Ken are vital - they ensure the service remains personal, empowering and deeply rooted in community connection.
Their accomplishment is even more admirable because they achieved it while learning in a second language, highlighting their determination and resilience.
Their success also highlights clear pathways for future volunteers to build confidence, develop their skills and make a tangible difference.
Kelly, Ian and Ken exemplify the spirit of TechMates - empathy, patience and a genuine commitment to helping people thrive in a digital world. Their achievements not only strengthen the Digital Communities offer but also demonstrate the positive, lasting impact volunteers can make when given the right support and recognition.
Posted on Wednesday 16th September 2026