Member Article

Campus North launches new initiative to help plug the digital skills gap

In light of the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee’s report last month, which revealed thatthe digital skills gap costs UK economy £63bn a year, Newcastle-based tech hub Campus North is helping plug the gap with a new initiative aimed at teachers.

As part of its new Tech for Life programme, Campus North is offering industry-led courses, which are being developed by those working in the industry and will be delivered by digital experts, for teachers in coding, computing and electronic skills.

Held at the hub’s base in Carliol Square, the courses will start in the Autumn term and will initially cover coding and electronics, including the popular Raspberry Pi.

The initiative has the backing of PIE (Primary Inspiration through Enterprise) and local education leaders.

Ammar Mirza, CBE, Chair of the Progression Forum and Chair of Tyneview Governors, said: “A recent government paper highlighted that there is a digital divide where up to 12.6 million of the adult UK population lack basic digital skills.

“An estimated 5.8 million people have never used the internet at all. This digital skills gap which starts in school is costing the UK economy an estimated £63 billion a year in lost additional GDP. These figures are compelling and there is an absolute need to support our future generations.

“Tech for Life has been addressing this issue and these CPD courses provide an industry led approach to support our teachers become better equipped at teaching critical tech skills. I would encourage all teachers to consider further developing themselves through these exciting and interactive courses.’

Lyndsey Britton, Co-Founder of Campus North added: “The UK’s digital industries are growing faster than the wider economy and creating a record number of jobs, so we need to ensure we have the next generation with the right skills here in the north east.

“We believe it’s up to industry to lead the way in supporting teachers and getting our educators engaged in the digital world and we’re delighted to have had our experts keen to both design and deliver these courses.

“The aim is to equip teachers with skills, confidence and ideas that they can take back to share in the classroom. The courses are half day and very practical, learning through a hands on, enjoyable experience.”

Bookings are now being taken for the first two courses: Introduction to Coding is on Thursday 15th September and Introduction to Electronics on Friday 30th September. Contact gemma.sayers@campusnorth.co.uk.