All over the country the BBC connects with local communities through a whole variety of activities based in our local radio stations, TV studios and other premises. These activities range from offering free learning courses to helping young people with creative projects to taking part in local festivals and community events. Sometimes you can come to the BBC, sometimes the BBC will come to you.

Drop in to a BBC Open Centre
Some BBC buildings have an Open Centre where you can join in free courses to learn new skills – anything from computers for beginners to radio storytelling or digital photography. Some centres run family learning days or special themed weeks, or you can just drop in and use the internet for free.

Hop on a BBC Bus
BBC buses are out on the road in many parts of the country, each of them a combination of a mobile radio studio with a mini internet café. You can come aboard for free help with your computer skills, and you might even get on the radio!

Schools and young people
The BBC works with schools and youth clubs on creative projects with a unique focus on broadcasting, including sound journeys, hoarding art, poetry and rap writing, and live performances. Young people between the ages of 13 and 19 can also get connected to BBC Blast for the lowdown on art, dance, film, music and writing that's happening in their local area. Blast reporters contribute to BBC Where I Live websites and local radio stations too.

Open House
In London, you can take a look inside the BBC when we open our doors – along with hundreds of other buildings in the capital – as part of the annual Open House weekend. Open House is a key initative to get everyone thinking about how our buildings affect our lives.