University wins share of funds for Institute of Coding’s digital skills drive

Coventry University has won a share of a £5m funding boost from The Institute of Coding (IoC) as part of its digital skills drive.

The £4.8m from the IoC, a consortium of universities, employers and outreach organisations which aims to develop the next generation of digital talent at degree level and above, includes £2.4m of grant funding provided by the Office for Students (OFS) and a further £2.4m of match funding from the consortium of partners that have formed the winning bids.

Coventry University has been allocated £420,000 for the development of an online pilot site, designed to provide signposting for learners for IoC initiatives, courses and opportunities.

Sheila Flavell, chair, IoC industry advisory board, said: “These courses will give thousands of people access to high quality learning opportunities and practical support at a time when employers need it most. Our extensive programmes, built in partnership with industry leaders, will widen access to the technology industry, spreading opportunity to people from a range of diverse backgrounds and strengthen our digital economy at a crucial time.”

Chris Millward, director for fair access and participation at the Office for Students, added: “This funding is a key part of our work to address skills gaps and improve graduate employability, particularly for students from groups who are under-represented or disadvantaged. Digital skills are vital for the economy, now and in the future, which is why we are backing this important initiative to boost equality and diversity in STEM education, develop the workforce that employers will need to meet future digital challenges, and open up the jobs of the future to graduates from all backgrounds.”