The aim of the project is to address skills shortages, rapid technological changes, and the lack of diversity in the workforce by empowering underrepresented groups. Building on the success of our Mayors Academies, the project contributes to the re-development of our Soho Centre. We will introduce industry-led, higher-level training for adults in the digital and creative fields. The new centre will provide state of the art computing power and cutting edge digital technologies on-site, but the project also includes the provision of Cloud Computing technology to enable learners to access high-end computing power from home, regardless of the quality of their local device. This innovative technology will provide access to learners that would otherwise struggle to attend on site due to multiple barriers.
The first phase of the project has centred around preparation since the Centre will not be ready for occupation until Autumn ’24. Part of the operation has been outward-looking. Academy Heads have engaged industry representatives in sectorial boards to facilitate pedagogical discussion, ensuring that employer’s needs are considered in the development of curriculum. Industry professionals have been engaged to deliver skills-based digital training, curated by our Curriculum Manager. The Academy Heads have also been developing partnerships with HEIs, piloting a number of notional Level 4 tasters and short courses in Cyber Security and related subjects. Our internal facing activity has focussed on upskilling existing subject-specialist staff in specialist equipment and processes in preparation for their application in the dedicated Digital Centre. We have also provided Digital training more widely to staff across CCCG around embracing AI for teacher workflows and lesson tools.
Although the Centre is not ready yet, we have trialled the use of Cloud Computing with a number of Digital learners and are using this experience to consolidate protocols and procedures to improve this service.
Year 2 will be predominantly focussed on capital investment and installation in the new centre. We aim to expand our outreach, increase participant numbers from underrepresented groups, and strengthen industry collaborations. We will continue to advocate for inclusive policies and practices, aiming to create a ripple effect that leads to systemic change and greater representation in the digital and creative industries. Through pioneering new skills training and fostering an inclusive environment, we aim to drive significant industry-wide impact.
