Code Division - Digital education transforms lives

03 Nov 2023

Code Division is a Glasgow based not-for-profit learning centre, dedicated to supporting disadvantaged groups and communities by designing and delivering learner-centred digital skills programs. Our programs cover in-demand topics, such as Cyber Security, Software Development, Data Analytics and Digital Marketing. Since March 2020 we have delivered our programs to over 600 learners, placing many of them into digital job roles with organisations like JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley, Public Health Scotland, Scottish Power, DC Thomson, Nat West, and many other enterprises and organisations – both large and small.

Data from our digital courses over the last 3 months. 

In October 2022 we ran a digital skills program for Ukrainian refugees. Although this was a short 5-week course, we were able to get many of our learners into digital roles including 3 learners who joined the Scottish Power returner program.  Below is a link to that program:  

Sense of Belonging (codedivision.co.uk)

There are now over 25,000 Ukrainian refugees in Scotland. Over 70% are Women, many with children or dependants. We know that 81% have a higher education,12% have a background in the tech industry, and many more hold extensive work experiences in business and management roles. Most refugees are in social housing, with over 3,500 still in temporary accommodation throughout Scotland. Many refugees are still unemployed or underemployed due to ingrained obstacles such as discrimination, a lack of qualification recognition, language barriers etc. A Scottish Government report highlighted the huge potential economic contribution of displaced people from Ukraine:

Ukrainian displaced people - economic impact of migration: discussion paper - gov.scot (www.gov.scot) 

The recent Government report ‘A Warm Scots Future’ represents a transition to a longer-term approach focused on integration. “To ensure people displaced from Ukraine can play active roles in communities across Scotland and have the opportunity to rebuild their lives and fulfil their potential in work and education”.

A Warm Scottish Future – Strategic Policy Position Paper (www.gov.scot)

Code Division are pleased to say we are now offering a 15-week cyber skills program solely for refugees. 

The program starts on 20 November. Learners on this program will gain an SQA accredited PDA in Cyber Resilience and workshops in a range of technical subjects alongside Business English, soft skills and wellbeing classes, industry talks and personalised mentoring. The program is designed to be trauma informed and learner centred. 

We have started recruiting for the program and have been amazed at the qualifications and work experience these learners have, and what skills they can offer industry and the wider Scottish society. Now, we are calling for businesses and organisations to support us in designing and delivering a successful Cyber Resilience program.

Ways to support:

1. Industry input is vital to ensure topic relevance and ascertain that we develop practical, employable skills for learners in disadvantaged groups.
2. Corporate sponsorship can enhance the quality of our program by allowing us to run further well-being and industry workshops, as well as removing financial barriers for learners accessing in person events.
3. Industry mentors help us provide insights and tailored guidance, enhancing the effectiveness of the program for individual learners.

Meaningful employment is more than just giving someone a job - it's about security, self-esteem, hope. Empowering our communities with access to quality learning resources, permanent accommodation, and the means to escape poverty equips individuals and their families with transformative tools that can change lives.

For further information, contact us at: digitalempowerment@codedivision.co.uk