AND Digital skills partnership to inspire next generation of tech talent for Thames Valley

Maidenhead-headquartered AND Digital has been announced as the inaugural partner of a new Thames Valley-based skills development programme which aims to support 18-24 year olds into a variety of creative and technology driven careers.

The programme, developed by The Curious Lounge, is designed to support young people in developing work ready skills, while also acting as a springboard for them to find kickstart placements, internships, apprenticeships or employment with leading local businesses.

The programme will see AND Digital’s technology experts supporting in the delivery of training for young adults who will be taught essential business and digital skills twice a week for six weeks, with facilitated learning totalling 48 hours. The AND team will also be on hand to mentor individuals providing them with tailored advice on specific technology based roles, the skills they will need to break into their chosen career route, and the softer skills they should hone in order to work effectively in the tight knit squads often used in large technology companies like AND.

Louize Clarke, Programme Lead for The Curious Collective, said: “The Curious Collective is all about positive action. We know that bright young talent is essential for the future of our local economy right here in the Thames Valley. That’s why we’ve developed a skills programme for young people that will not only expand their horizons about future career options, but provide them with the tangible skills and know-how they’ll need to enter the world of employment with the right level of confidence.

“Our new partnership with AND Digital will help us to provide young people with a truly first class insight into what a modern tech career involves and what expertise they’ll need to develop if they were to go on and work for a fast paced and rapidly growing organisation. We’re calling on other local businesses to get involved to support us in giving local youngsters the best possible start to their career aspirations, while future proofing the local economy for the generations to come. ”

Shan Beerstecher, Club Executive at AND Digital, added: “AND is on a mission to improve the digital skills and knowledge of 200,000 people by 2025. Our work with The Curious Collective has given us the opportunity to take a step closer to achieving this goal, while also positively impacting the lives of many young people in the Thames Valley Community. People are at the front and centre of AND Digital and this partnership will allow us to make positive change in the communities in which we work and operate.

“As one of Europe’s fastest growing companies, we’re constantly on the hunt for the tech pioneers of tomorrow. This programme allows us to directly nurture the talent pool of tomorrow, and ensure that the local economy has a fresh pipeline of talent to pick from when it comes to tech focused skills - particularly important as the global economy becomes more reliant on digital services and products.”

The first cohort of young people will embark on The Curious Collective’s skills programme from 7th September 2021 and can apply for a place https://www.thecuriouslounge.co.uk/news/bootcampapply .

To find out more about The Curious Collective programme and how your business can support it, visit: https://www.thecuriouslounge.co.uk/news/collective

For more information about AND Digital, visit: https://and.digital/