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As the demand for digital professionals continues to surge in Lancashire and Cumbria, particularly in software and web application development, local industries face a pressing challenge.
With 94 per cent of UK tech employers acknowledging an industry-wide skills shortage, this gap poses a significant hurdle for companies seeking to remain competitive.
The Lancashire and Cumbria Institute of Technology (IoT)’s academic partner, Runshaw College, are tackling this issue head-on through their Level 5 Diploma in Web Application Development, in collaboration with the Code Institute who support in delivering the course.
The L5 Diploma covers core web development fundamentals, from HTML to MySQL, as well as essential topics such as user interface design and database management.
Learners work on practical, portfolio-based projects, giving them hands-on experience with the latest tools and technologies used in the industry. The course also explores critical problem-solving skills, preparing students for real-world challenges they will face in digital roles.
The fully remote course enables students to study from anywhere in the UK.
Mark Heaton, Head of Adult Education at Runshaw College, emphasises the importance of accessibility in addressing the region’s digital skills gap.
“Making courses more accessible is fundamental to addressing the skills need for Lancashire and Cumbria. We’ve invested in 100 sets of equipment to support remote learning, allowing learners to study from home, providing flexibility for those seeking a career change or to upskill.”
The one-year programme equips students with essential coding and development skills, preparing them for various roles such as web developers, software engineers and front-end developers.
By collaborating with Microsoft and drawing feedback from over 2,500 employers in its network, Code Institute ensures that graduates are ready for the demands of the technology industry.
Callum Cartledge, Territory Manager at the Code Institute, explains: “We work closely with industry giants to develop qualifications that match employer needs. Our graduates have the skills employers demand, making them highly sought after in today’s digital landscape.”
The partnership between the Lancashire and Cumbria Institute of Technology, Runshaw College and Code Institute ensures that local talent is ready to fill the growing demand for web development roles, helping bridge the digital skills gap and empowering learners with career-changing opportunities.
