THERE here are just days left to apply for the opportunity to start a new career in the software industry supported by local companies keen to fast track up and coming talent into employment.
The Kickstart IT course, which is funded by the Department for the Economy, is a 16 week, industry led course aimed at students at HNC/D level and above. Participants will benefit from specialist training to enable them to successfully apply for IT software roles.
The course starts in the New Year and there are still a few places left for anyone who sees a future for themselves in the IT industry.
Local man Joe McCay is just one of those who has already discovered a successful new career path thanks to the opportunities opened up through the course.
Joe was a musician who found himself out of work during lockdown, and seeking a job that would provide both security and an exciting new challenge.
Since embarking on the Kickstart IT course Joe has found a new opportunity and has never looked back, as he explains.
“Although I enjoyed working in the music industry, I can honestly say working in IT is now where I see my career going forwards. I’m currently working as a quality insurance tester, and I’m really enjoying the challenge.
“There are so many opportunities within the IT industry, all I can see now is a positive future for me. I would highly recommend you to talk to Council if you even think this is an area you would like to work in.
“It has been transformational for me, and has opened up so many new opportunities in terms of employment and security.”
The full time course will begin on January 10th, and offers students a placement of at least four weeks with a local software company and a guaranteed job interview at the end with participating companies.
Head of Business with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Kevin O’Connor, said the course would offer students the chance to get the competitive edge in the local job market.
“We are delighted to be working with the North West Regional College and local IT companies to provide a specially tailored course which will that will help address a shortage of computer programmers in our region.
“The course has employability sessions integrated into it which aim to enhance the candidates’ personal development to give the best possible chance during the job application process.
“These include assistance with completing the application form, advice on improving interview skills, mock interview feedback and help with delivering presentations.
“These are skills that participants can use regardless of whether or not they choose to pursue a career in IT at the end of the course.”
Candidates must be fully available for the entire duration of the training schedule which will delivered through a blended approach of classroom and online learning.
Successful students will gain qualifications in ISTQB Foundation Certificate in Software Testing, a City and Guilds Diploma for Software Developers and a City and Guilds Certificate of Unit Credit in relation to SQL module.
Lecturer in Computing at North West Regional College, Kevin McLaughlin, revealed that, despite the short nature of the course, students will learn a wide range of programming functions.
“This software fundamentals course will allow students with no background in IT to quickly learn a range of skills and programming languages that they can put into practise in the workplace,” he said.
“It includes Java, SQL and UX Fundamentals modules as well as software testing and design.
“The local software industry is a growing one, particularly in the current climate, and the successful completion of this course can leave candidates strongly equipped to successfully gain employment and thrive in it.”
For an application pack contact Eileen McGrinder on 07595216249 or by email [email protected]
Tags: