Supporting Statement – Digital Engagement Officer, Gateshead Central Library
I am excited to apply for the role of Digital Engagement Officer at Gateshead Central Library. This opportunity aligns strongly with my professional experience, teaching background, and passion for enabling people to develop digital skills. Throughout my career, I have combined technical expertise with a commitment to education, training, and public engagement, which I believe positions me well to contribute to Gateshead’s MakerPlace programme and wider community initiatives.
Teaching and Training Experience
A central focus of my career has been designing and delivering training and learning opportunities for diverse audiences. Early in my career, I worked as an IT lecturer and curriculum support at Gateshead College and Newcastle College, where I developed and delivered lessons in computing and technology. I created structured learning materials and guided students through practical exercises, supporting them to understand complex concepts and build confidence in their digital skills. I also developed e-learning content using tools such as Adobe Captivate and Articulate Storyline, training staff to create their own digital learning modules. This combination of classroom teaching and digital content development provided me with the ability to convey technical subjects in clear, accessible ways — a skill that is directly transferable to delivering workshops and activities in a library setting.
Throughout my roles as a Microsoft 365 Developer at Northumberland County Council and Fizeau Consulting, I have continued this focus on training. I have delivered workshops and one-to-one sessions on Microsoft Power Platform tools, including Power Apps, Power Automate, and Power BI, supporting colleagues to adopt new technologies and automate manual processes. These sessions required me to assess participants’ skill levels, adapt content to meet their needs, and provide practical, hands-on exercises to ensure learning was engaging and effective. My approach emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring participants of varying experience levels feel supported and confident.
Beyond formal employment, I have extensive volunteer teaching experience. I have provided IT tutoring for Tibetan refugees in India and supported community projects in Lebanon, the West Bank, and Gaza. These experiences required adaptability, cultural awareness, and the ability to deliver learning in challenging environments — skills that are highly relevant to engaging with diverse audiences across Gateshead. I have also participated in international volunteer placements, including Camp America in the USA and a kibbutz in Israel, where I facilitated group activities and learning experiences, further strengthening my ability to connect with learners of all ages and backgrounds.
Digital Skills and Workshop Delivery
My professional and technical background enables me to deliver innovative, technology-based workshops. I have designed and implemented digital solutions using Microsoft 365, Power Platform, and .NET technologies, and I am confident in learning and teaching new technologies, including coding, multimedia tools, and emerging digital devices. During my time at Northumberland County Council, I have developed Power Apps solutions to simplify workflows, created Power BI dashboards for interactive data analysis. These experiences have honed my ability to structure training sessions, demonstrate technologies in practical ways, and encourage active participation — all essential for engaging library users in MakerPlace activities.
I am particularly interested in creative, hands-on learning experiences. I completed a Level 3 Creative & Screen Production course, learning videography, scripting, filming, and editing, which complements my technical skills and expands my ability to design engaging digital workshops. I also have experience with coding, software development, and database management, allowing me to introduce participants to a range of technologies and digital problem-solving activities. My goal in workshops is always to make technology approachable, enjoyable, and rewarding for learners of all abilities.
Community Engagement and Inclusivity
Engaging with the community and promoting digital inclusion has been a consistent focus of my work. I have delivered training to public sector employees, consultancy clients, and community groups, ensuring that digital tools are accessible and inclusive. I understand that learners may have different levels of familiarity with technology, and I adapt my approach to meet individual needs, using practical demonstrations, guided exercises, and encouragement to build confidence.
My international volunteering experiences have also strengthened my ability to engage with diverse groups. Working in culturally varied settings, I developed strong communication skills, patience, and sensitivity to different learning needs. These skills translate directly to delivering workshops in Gateshead, whether in schools, libraries, or community venues. I am confident in my ability to create welcoming, inclusive learning environments that inspire residents to explore new technologies and develop practical digital skills.
Teamwork and Collaboration
Delivering training and workshops successfully requires effective teamwork and collaboration, skills I have developed throughout my career. In both council and consultancy roles, I have worked closely with colleagues and stakeholders to understand requirements, design solutions, and provide training and support. I have experience managing my workload, prioritizing tasks, and coordinating with others to ensure successful outcomes. I am comfortable working in team environments, sharing knowledge, and supporting colleagues to enhance digital skills across the organisation.
Commitment to Lifelong Learning
I am motivated by learning and sharing knowledge. My career demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning, from developing new digital solutions to completing formal education in computing, physics, and creative media. This passion for continuous development underpins my approach to teaching: I am always exploring new technologies and methods to engage learners, whether through practical workshops, interactive demonstrations, or hands-on exercises. My enthusiasm for learning is infectious, helping participants feel motivated and confident to explore digital technologies themselves.
Alignment with Gateshead Library Values
The role of Digital Engagement Officer aligns closely with my personal and professional values. I am passionate about helping others, creating opportunities for learning, and making technology accessible to everyone. I am particularly inspired by the MakerPlace initiative and the Library Service’s commitment to fostering creativity, digital inclusion, and lifelong learning. My experience in training, workshop delivery, and community engagement positions me to contribute effectively to these objectives, helping residents develop new skills, confidence, and enthusiasm for digital technologies.
Conclusion
In summary, I bring a combination of technical expertise, teaching and training experience, and a strong commitment to community engagement and digital inclusion. My career has consistently focused on enabling others through technology, delivering accessible and engaging training, and creating environments where learners of all ages and abilities feel supported and inspired. I am confident that my skills and experience make me an excellent fit for the role of Digital Engagement Officer at Gateshead Central Library, and I am eager to contribute to the development and delivery of innovative digital workshops and activities for the local community.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience in teaching, training, and technology can support Gateshead Library Service’s goals, helping residents to explore, create, and thrive in the digital world.