The University of Bath-led Institute of Coding (IoC) has launched a series of free digital skills programmes targeting learners from low-income and minority backgrounds across the UK.
The Click Start programmes, which are focused on tackling the digital skills gap and improving social mobility, include one that links the IoC with Bath Spa University.
Working with London-based charity Catch 22 and partners, Bath Spa will deliver UX/UI and web development training to disadvantaged groups across the South West.
In total, more than 26,000 learners across the country will begin IoC programmes within the next few weeks, with tailored careers support designed to help learners into employment in the tech industry.
The £12m Click Start initiative courses are funded by public benefit company Nominet to develop learners’ digital skills, helping them to secure employment across a variety of industries.
The programme offers learners hybrid in-person/online courses to develop their digital skills, to grow their confidence and boost their chances of employment.
On many of these, charity partners will provide learners with additional support, such as careers advice and mentoring by tech industry leaders.
Click Start’s launch follows London Tech Week, when industry leaders, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, called for swift action to ensure the UK retains its position as one of the world’s tech capitals
Research from Tech Nation suggests there are an estimated 870,000 tech sector vacancies across the UK.
The IoC has already offered 150 digital skills training and employability programmes to more than 900,000 learners across the UK.
Leaders from across the tech industry and have praised the IoC and its partners for their efforts to tackle the combined digital skills and social mobility gap across the UK.
IoC director Prof Rachid Hourizi MBE, pictured, said: “This programme, funded by Nominet, reflects the two organisations’ commitment to social mobility and inclusion. Our shared mission is to give people new skills that help them unlock new jobs and opportunities.
“The UK faces significant digital skills and recruitment challenges, compounded by a fragile talent pipeline, insufficient growth and insufficient diversity.”
He said the programme would enable thousands more people from disadvantaged and under-represented groups achieve their true potential in this field by offering different pathways to skills and employment, and entry into digital careers.
The IoC is a collaboration of more than 300 employers, 35 universities and 20 outreach partners which have worked together to help a larger and more diverse group of learners into tech careers since 2018.
