Side projects

Programming

With the boom in frontend development, I found myself interested in modern-day HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. I worked through freeCodeCamp and moved onto the challenges on Frontend Mentor. Some of my progress and designs are linked below:

• Frontend Mentor

  Share menu cards - 'Enduro' design

  I created a set of 'enduro' themed cards based on a Frontend Mentor challenge.

  by Alex RoanJun 9, 2025

  

• Frontend Mentor

  Four cards - 'Pokemon' design

  I created a Pokemon themed four card layout in HTML. This was inspired by one of the challenges at frontendmentor.com.

  by Alex RoanNov 17, 2024

  

• Frontend Mentor

  Card - 'Ichigo' design

  I created a product card page in HTML and CSS based on the character Ichigo from the Anime called Bleach. This was an alternate design for one of the challenges on the Frontend Mentor website.

  by Alex RoanNov 13, 2024

  

• freeCodeCamp

  JavaScript Algorithms and Data Structures

  I completed freeCodeCamp's course on JavaScript Algorithms and Data Structures. This was way tougher than Responsive Web Design. One exercise 'building a spreadsheet app' was so hard to follow. But, overall I was impressed how much you can do with JavaScript.

  by Alex RoanAug 22, 2024

  

• freeCodeCamp

  Responsive Web Design

  I completed freeCodeCamp's course on responsive web design. This was quite a long course with a lot of exercises and five certification projects. Read more to see my 'Toyota' theme solutions to the challenges.

  by Alex RoanFeb 16, 2024

  

Classic cars

While living back in the Highlands of Scotland in 2020-2022, I rekindled my interest in classic cars and spent time working on a few light projects.

Look, it's me wrestling the steering gearbox out of a MK3 Toyota Hilux in the depths of a snowy Highlands winter!

Here are a list of the projects I worked on:

• 1989 Renault Alpine GTA

  Work done:

  • Input manifold rebuilt
  • New coolant hoses fitted
  • Pedal assembly rebuilt
  • Dashboard removed, restored, and refitted.

  

• 1985 Toyota Landcruiser HJ60

  Work done:

  • Engine oil changed and a new filter fitted
  • Rear suspension bushes replaced.

  

• 1997 Toyota Hilux (MK3)

  Work done:

  • Chassis, inner wings, and bulkhead restored
  • Front swivels rebuilt (all bushes, seals, grease, etc.)
  • Steering gearbox rebuilt
  • Engine oil changed and new filter fitted.

  

• 1985 Toyota Celica Supra

  Work done:

  • Engine oil changed and a new filter fitted
  • Alloy wheels refurbished

  

• 1978 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am

  Work done:

  • Engine oil changed and a new filter fitted
  • Automatic gear box oil changed, a new filter and new seal fitted
  • Rear diff oil changed and new seals fitted
  • Windscreen wiper motor rebuilt
  • Brake system overhauled.

  

Teching English as a foreign language

Join these together, and I decided to start a basic qualification in teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL).

I've always found that writing is a good way to consolidate learning, so I've created a blog about TEFL. I'll be sharing what I learn, as well as trying to capture some consulting perspectives on TEFL.

My first blog post is on teaching methods.

Photography

My photography is over on my personal blog page.