Rhondda Cynon Taf has become the first local authority to work with Microsoft to set up an IT Academy.
The academy was set up after studies found there will be a significant shortage of IT professionals in the next five to 10 years. The initiative will be open to all young people and schools in the borough, and aims to educate and increase skills in IT and digital technology.
Cabinet member for council business and corporate affairs, Cllr Maureen Webber, said: ‘The Microsoft IT Academy Programme offers educational establishments extensive benefits and the opportunity to deliver training and qualifications to their pupils, staff and wider community.
‘A comprehensive knowledge of IT programmes and packages is an essential part of any child’s education in the modern age.’
The project will provide free industry standard qualifications that can be either be taught at school or self-taught using a free eLearning package. It will also offer support and qualification structure for all RCT teachers.
