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Adults in Jersey are being encouraged to get with the programme and learn the basics of computer coding so that they can join what is fast becoming the most employable sector in Britain.
The new academic year will see all Jersey schoolchildren learning computer coding but there’s still a shortage in the number of adults with the skills to work in the digital industry – the EU estimates that by 2020 there will be up to 1.3 million jobs in the sector unfilled because of the lack of expertise.
The first-ever National Coding Week for Adults launches this month in a bid to address the problem both in the Channel Islands and UK.
From 21-28 September 2014 people within the digital industry are being urged to pass on their knowledge to adults of all ages by organising events and training sessions either remotely or face-to-face.
The event is the brainchild of Richard Rolfe and Jordan Love of Codex DLD – a tech business that helps adults make the most of digital opportunities.
Mr Rolfe said: “The UK Government has made computer coding compulsory in schools from September 2014 which is great for future generations but does not tackle the skills shortage that exists today. National Coding Week is all about empowering adults to take advantage of digital opportunities. We’d encourage everyone to take part, if I can learn to code aged 51 then, anyone can!"
JT’s Chief Executive of sponsors Graeme Millar said: “As a telecoms company at the forefront of the digital revolution, it is critical for our business that we are able to employ skilled staff. We are supporting Coding Week to raise awareness of the opportunities in this dynamic sector. This is about letting people know that coding can be for everyone and that there are employers like us who are keen to support and encourage digital learning and new entrants into this exciting industry.”
Richard and Jordan want both governments and the tech community to back the campaign too and show their support via the hashtag #NationalCodingWeek.
National Coding Week is set to become an annual event and is supported by leading industry organisations including Codecademy, Decoded, FiretechCamp, Women who Code (UK) and the EU Young Advisors group (UK).
Codecademy’s head of UK operations Rachael Swidebank said: “National Coding Week is a great opportunity for adults to try platforms like Codecademy to experience how accessible and valuable learning digital skills can be, encouraging evolution and education regardless of age or career stage. We look forward to seeing the broader digital community come together in support.”
For information on holding your own event and for more information about the week go to www.nationalcodingweek.com
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