A £1 million hub which aims to transform digital skills training and education in Cumbria is set to open this year.
The Digital Accelerator Hub is being created at Lakes College, Lillyhall, in partnership with Allerdale Borough Council as part of the Workington Town Deal project.
It aims to meet a need in Cumbria for enhanced digital skills, particularly higher-level qualifications, and will feature industry-standard equipment and software in an accessible location.
The hub, set to open at the Lakes College campus this summer, will be a community asset for use by Cumbrian people and employers to upgrade their digital skills, supporting them to take advantage of opportunities and create jobs in the region.
Chris Nattress, Lakes College principal, said: “Digital skills are in increasing demand in our personal and professional lives and thanks to the Workington Town Deal support we are able to provide a dedicated hub to help West Cumbrian businesses and residents access top-notch support and technology no matter what their need.
“We’re really looking forward to equipping our area with the skills we need to thrive.”
Mike Johnson, leader of Allerdale council, added: “This hub will provide a reason for the workforce of the future to stay in Cumbria, rather than seeking great careers in the digital economy elsewhere in the country.
“The initiative will have links to apprenticeship providers and also offer bespoke training for employers, adding to the attraction for young people to stay, live and work in West Cumbria.
“I think it’s going to be a brilliant addition to skills and education in this area and I look forward to its future success.”
Courses on offer will range from formal qualifications up to degree level and bespoke commercial training targeting employer needs to support for adults looking to upgrade their digital life and work skills. The programme will include specialist training covering coding, software development, expanded VR capabilities, laser scanning and 3D CAD.
