CODE NATION: BRIDGING THE DIGITAL SKILLS GAP IN THE UK

Code Nation, a Chester-based private training and education business, is dedicated to bridging the digital skills gap in the UK.

Code Nation’s primary focus is offering free and subsidised training in essential areas such as Cyber Security, Software Development, Web Development, Data & Analytics, Extended Reality, Computer Science in the Tech sector. David Muir, CEO of Code Nation, explains their mission: “to create employable talent by inspiring people from all backgrounds to build successful careers in tech.”

With a commitment to accessibility, Code Nation UK provides a range of programmes. Their innovative apprenticeships, lasting over 18 months, equip apprentices with the necessary skills to add immediate value in the workplace. For individuals looking to gain tech proficiency quickly, Code Nation offers intensive 12-week Master Skills Bootcamps. These bootcamps train students to become software developers, cyber security professionals, or data analysts to a Level 3 standard. Additionally, Code Nation provides part-time courses and short, four-week introductory courses that teach the basics of the disciplines at a Level 2 standard.

Code Nation provides comprehensive support services to ensure student success. Career coaching offers one-on-one guidance from experienced professionals, helping students develop CVs, enhance interviewing skills, and secure job opportunities. Mentorship connects students with industry professionals who provide valuable guidance and support. David added: “We would love to have more Cheshire based employers engaging with our local students!”

Code Nation has a strong track record, having already assisted nearly 5,000 students from underrepresented communities in learning to code and launching tech careers.

Roz Atherton, Sales & Marketing Director, is passionate about their commitment to accessibility: “Our courses are designed to be accessible to everyone. We strive to eliminate barriers such as prior education, affordability, technical skills, access to equipment, age, gender, or financial resources. We genuinely transform our graduates from having zero skills to being employable in a short period.”

WHAT’S NEW FOR CHESHIRE?

Code Nation have recently secured funding to train employed individuals in Cheshire and Warrington, through support from the C&W LEP. There are two courses, which local employers can take advantage of:

• The Software Development Skills Bootcamp, starting on July 24th, is part-time over 12 weeks and delivered to a Level 3 standard

• The Cyber Security Skills Bootcamp begins on August 21st, following the same part-time format

SMEs can receive up to 90% funding while large organisations can access up to 70%. This presents a fantastic opportunity to invest in your talent and upskill or reskill in much-needed technical skills.

We also have some amazing local Bootcamp graduates looking for junior roles, so do speak to us if you are hiring new talent.

If you are an employer looking to recruit new talent, invest in existing employees or even just inspire the next generation of tech talent, get in touch or pop into our Chester campus on City Road where we always have a good supply of doughnuts!

To find our more visit: www.wearecodenation.com

Code Nation Fact File

• Founded in 2018 by David Muir, a former Partner in PwC, IBM, and KPMG, who is passionate about making tech accessible to all.

• While based in Chester, England, Code Nation offers courses online across the UK, and have recently signed an agreement to provide training in Saudi Arabia.

• To date, Code Nation has helped nearly 5,000 students acquire coding skills and launch successful careers in tech.

• Finalist in the 2023 Diversity and Inclusion Awards in the Tech Industry in London

• Their alumni work at renowned tech companies in the UK, including KPMG, IBM, Amazon, and locally, Sykes Cottages.