when we had the sewing school we had 5 inexpensive Brother machines ($89- $139 each)
they were wonderful machines for our beginning sewers- had threaders- and speed control capabilities-so they could be slowed down for those with lead feet :)
i had my expensive Viking in the shop too---but 9 times out of 10 a student would rather wait in line for one of the brothers than sit down at the viking!
they took a beating we had students from grade school age- up to 70+ making all sorts of things- clothing- purses- home dec---and quilts.
i will always recommend inexpensive Brother machines for a beginner sewer :)