As part of its new Tech for Life programme, the north east tech hub is offering industry-led courses in coding, computing and electronic skills. The courses are unique in being developed by those working in the industry and will be delivered by programmers and digital experts.
Held at Campus North, the courses start this term and initially cover coding and electronics, including the popular Raspberry Pi. The sessions are practical hands on learning, led by experts; teachers will be able to take away ready made lessons, as well as new skills and ideas and access ongoing support after each course.
The initiative has the backing of local education leaders.
Alison Shaw, Director, North East Futures UTC and Trustee, National Foundation for Educational Research said, “Our superb teaching force needs help and support to develop their technical computing skills. Not only is the technological environment changing at a phenomenal rate, but the school curriculum is too. Tech for Life courses are designed to help teachers enjoy learning about all aspects of the digital revolution and to provide much needed insights, which will enable them to advise our region’s young people about the opportunities available to them – this chance for teachers to work with industry experts is invaluable”
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.”
Lyndsey Britton, Co-Founder of Campus North said, “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 courses: Introduction to Coding and Introduction to Electronics. Courses start on Friday 30th September and will run each month throughout the winter term.
For more information or to sign up to Tech for Teachers visit www.techforlife.co.uk