Digital abilities partnership between Hyndburn consultancy and school
A technology consulting and training college have entered into a strategic partnership to develop the next generation of cybersecurity and high-tech experts.
The new partnership was formed between Sundown Solutions, based in Altham, Accrington, Lancashire, and the Nelson and Colne College Group, which also includes Accrington and Rossendale College.
This was followed by a recent visit to local schools and a presentation at the Amazing Accrington Education Summit highlighting the need for digital skills training in the area. The link supports the development of industry-relevant and professional skills for learners at the digital T level, which link to the GCSEs and correspond to three A levels.
The joint initiative will also prepare learners for embarking on a career in software development.
The two-year courses were developed in collaboration with employers and companies to help students meet the needs of the industry – crucial in non-traditional areas such as software development and cybersecurity.
Heath Groves, Chief Executive Officer of Sundown Solutions, said, “The need for digital skills in the future workforce is increasing and the market for skilled cybersecurity professionals is growing exponentially.”
Heath recently joined the Amazing Accrington group of companies to encourage interaction between businesses like his and education providers to ensure young people have the skills they need for careers in technology.
He added, “We are expanding rapidly and employing interns and apprentices of all ages, not just high school leavers. The agreement to deploy the new T-Level ensures that the local people will have the opportunity to train and acquire the skills necessary to work at the highest level of digital technology.
“People need to know that Hyndburn has these options [CE High School Academy] helped us directly because we hired two young people that day. “
Amanda Melton, principal and CEO of the college, said, “The introduction of the T Levels has opened up a new avenue for non-traditional industries to train people with the skills they need in their field. We are excited to be working with Sundown
Solutions to provide the first digital T-Levels in the region and we look forward to a steady stream of qualified, qualified employees in digital jobs. ”
The new Digital T Levels will start in September 2021. You can find out more and apply on the Nelson and Colne College website.
