Free digital skills courses for young people in Wales

The King's Trust, The Open University in Wales and the Institute of Coding have partnered to offer free digital skills courses to young people aged 16 to 30 in South Wales.

This initiative aims to address the digital skills gap in Wales, where almost half of Welsh businesses struggle with skills shortages. The collaboration will provide young people from underrepresented backgrounds with access to high-quality digital skills education, equipping them with vital skills needed in the modern workplace.

The courses, which are free, range from content creation for social media to coding and software development. The programme will be delivered through the Institute of Coding's Click Start programme, with The Open University offering five-week courses.

The Welsh Government has endorsed these courses through the Young Person's Guarantee scheme. This scheme supports people between 16 and 24 to get into education, training, apprenticeship or work.

The King's Trust will provide learners with support throughout the course and help secure employment after completion. The charity will offer dedicated advice and guidance, including mock interviews, career workshops and money management support.

Professor Rachid Hourizi, Director of the Institute of Coding, said, "Preparing the workforce for careers of the future is vital. The Institute of Coding is bringing together a partnership with The King's Trust and The Open University to close the Welsh skills gap and boost employment across the country. United by a powerful vision, we aim to equip young people with the digital skills they need to thrive and to open doors to opportunities in fast-evolving fields. Together, we're building a digital future that leaves nobody behind."

Dr Scott McKenzie, Assistant Director, Learning and Curriculum at The Open University in Wales said, "We know from our research with employers in Wales that many are reporting a skills shortage, particularly in terms of digital talent – and attracting people with these skills is key for their future growth. As well as helping us reach disadvantaged young people, the partnership with The King's Trust will support them to develop the capacity that employers are looking for and get them ready for the workplace. The funding from the Institute of Coding has also allowed us to offer courses free of charge for young people to help them move into higher education, which for many may also be the start of a journey into lifelong learning."

Sarah Jones, Director of Delivery at The King's Trust in Wales said, "At The King's Trust, we are committed to ensuring that every young person has the skills, confidence and support they need to succeed in today's digital world. Through this partnership with the Institute of Coding and The Open University, we aim to break down barriers to opportunity for young people across South Wales by offering accessible and practical digital skills training."

"Alongside technical coaching, we'll provide vital career advice to empower each learner to build a future they can be proud of. We believe this programme will open doors to meaningful employment and help young people develop the skills to thrive in an evolving job market."