Golden Valley invests in cyber futures

A “landmark” Gloucestershire development is strengthening the region’s digital skills pipeline through fresh backing for a school-led cyber education initiative.

Golden Valley, which is being delivered by HBD, part of Henry Boot, in partnership with Cheltenham Borough Council, has provided new funding to support Cleeve School’s Distribution Hub, a cornerstone of the county’s Cyber First initiative.

The hub loans specialist equipment to primary and secondary schools, enabling pupils across Gloucestershire to build confidence in coding, robotics and digital technology.

Officials say the funding will allow the school to continue supplying class sets of devices including iPads, laptops, programmable robot heads, Spheros and Raspberry Pi.

They add the aim is to widen access to hands-on learning and spark interest in future careers in cyber and technology.

Alwyn Richards, executive head of Cleeve School, said: “Cleeve School is delighted to be working in partnership with the digital community and Golden Valley, in particular. 

“The UK is reliant on its schools to ‘upstream’ the nurturing of digital talent and to help shape the future workforce. 

“Cleeve does this exceptionally well, having won national awards for its cyber work. 

“We are still in the foothills, however, so would welcome even bigger conversations about connecting cyber industry with our flourishing classrooms.”

Hamer Boot, interim managing director at HBD, added: “Supporting digital skills and future talent is a core priority for Golden Valley so we’re pleased to be backing Cleeve School’s Distribution Hub. 

“Our social value strategy is focused on creating long-term benefits for Cheltenham and our team are underway with various initiatives which demonstrate our commitment to delivering meaningful, lasting impact.”

The move forms part of Golden Valley’s wider social value programme, which focuses on employment and skills, innovation, health and wellbeing and environmental protection.

Additional initiatives include coding workshops with Jam Coding, a food pantry collection point at the MX building and free community meeting space.

Councillor Rowena Hay, leader of Cheltenham Borough Council, added: “Golden Valley is a landmark development for Cheltenham, and this latest funding highlights the project’s commitment to delivering long-term social value. 

“Initiatives like Cleeve School’s Distribution Hub and Jam Coding are helping to build the skills pipeline for our future economy, while delivering real benefits for residents, schools and community organisations across the borough.”

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