What is this project?
In response to the tech skills crisis, ScotlandIS run an innovative project to provide every secondary school across Scotland with a tech expert at their disposal – these are Digital Critical Friends.
ScotlandIS aim to raise awareness of the skills and knowledge required for working in the tech sector amongst educators, learners and their families. The programme will help teachers shape a curriculum that matches the needs of industry and ensure learners are aware of the opportunities for careers, training, and further study.
Why is this programme needed?
There is currently a shortage of learners qualifying in, studying, or having the opportunity to study Computing Science in schools across Scotland – especially amongst girls and young women.
Only 27% of young women say they would consider a career in technology, and only 3% would say it is their first choice of career. (PwC UK, Women in Tech Report)
The tech industry in Scotland promises creative, flexible, and highly rewarding career pathways, and it is estimated that around 80% of future jobs will require STEM skills, including Computing Science.
13,000 digital tech job opportunities are created every year in Scotland; filling all of them would add £1bn to Scotland’s economy. (ScotlandIS)
How does this work?
ScotlandIS will work with interested schools across Scotland to provide a Digital Critical Friend in every secondary school interested in the project.
Digital Critical Friends will inform teachers and pupils of what is happening in the sector: where the new technologies are, share emerging career opportunities and how to access them.
Digital Critical Friends can connect flexibly, by video call, email or over coffee. They will act as a sounding board, a friend, a guide to the teachers. They’ll be willing to take part in catch-ups and could present to students about subjects that interest them, demonstrating how exciting the tech sector is. Teachers and Digital Critical Friends may also arrange a visit to each other’s workplace in order to understand the opportunities and challenges that they work with.
How do I get involved?
To discuss further, and register your interest, please contact Fiona Thomson at fiona.thomson@scotlandis.com.
