COMPUTER whizzes Simon Eddleston and John Nicholl (pictured) say that the IT courses provided at their local college have given them a second chance in the workplace.

The two men, studying at St Helens College, have completed a series of tough exams to become ‘Microsoft Masters’ – an accreditation that recognises them as leaders in their field of study.

The rigorous process, which includes completing three core level exams and two expert level exams, puts Simon Eddleston and John Nicholl a step above the rest on the career ladder.

Ex-cabbie, Simon struggled with learning when he was younger and left school with few qualifications. After a 15-year stint as a taxi driver, he decided it was time for a career change but found it increasingly difficult to find a job that did not require computer skills.

Simon said: “St Helens College is absolutely fantastic, I can’t praise it enough. After five years of school and two years of a training scheme, it only took two weeks at St Helens College to find out I am dyslexic.

“The tutors are great and really supportive. It doesn’t matter what you know, what you don’t know, how old you are. I now have certificates from Microsoft! I would recommend this to anyone.”

Fellow Microsoft Master John also found it difficult to find a job with no computer skills, after serving 14 years as a motor vehicle technician in the Army.

John says: “This course is fantastic. You can work at your own pace; you’re not rushing to keep up with the fastest person or being held back. All of the tutors are excellent. They have given their free time up to invigilate Microsoft exams for us.

“As long as you are prepared to work they are always there when you need them.

“Everyone should give this course a go it is excellent.”