Click Start: The Free course that gives you next-level digital skills
In today’s digital age, having digital skills is no longer an option but a necessity. The world is rapidly evolving, and technology is at the forefront. As a result, digital skills have become vital for you to have.
The Institute of Coding (IoC), led by the University of Bath, has launched a national digital skills programme, Click Start, a new training programme that gives you the digital skills you need not only to be prepared for the future but to also get better pay and job opportunities. Because whatever you want to do in your career, learning next-level skills can help you get there.
What is Click Start?
The Click Start programme aligns with the IoC’s overall mission to reduce the UK’s digital skills gap and get a more diverse group of people into tech.
It’s a nationwide training programme that offers different courses nationwide with in-person and online learning options.
These courses are aimed at people of different ages and backgrounds, and they cover a range of topics, from basic computer skills to digital marketing and cyber security.
Click Start was created to give you the digital skills you need, but also additional support, such as career advice and mentoring by tech industry leaders, depending on the programme you’ll be part of.
During your programme, you’ll practice your newly acquired skills, which will help you gain experience and stand out in job interviews.
The entry requirements depend on the programme you want to apply for. To ensure you’re eligible, please head to the course listing and check if the entry criteria apply to you. View our course listings here.
Is Click Start the right programme for me?
Do you want a new direction? Or do you want to upskill? Or a raise or promotion in your current role? Click Start can give you the head start you need.
You don’t need experience. You don’t need to have been to university. All you need is curiosity and be ready to learn new things.
The entry requirements depend on the programme you want to apply for. To ensure you’re eligible, please head to the course listing and check if the entry criteria apply to you. View our course listings here.
Do I have to pay to join Click Start?
If you meet the eligibility criteria, the programme is completely free. And no, there’s no catch. These spaces have been funded by Nominet to reduce the UK’s digital skills gap.
Please go to specific courses to see the eligibility criteria for each course. View our course listings here.
How many Click Start Programmes do you have?
There are five Click Start programmes:
Click Start by Leeds University and Coursera
The fully remote Click Start programme by Leeds University and hosted on the Coursera platform, allows you to access as many as 18 flexible online courses you can complete in your free time.
The course covers digital skills and professional development designed to help you apply for and get the best job that fits your plans. All modules are self-guided.
Click here to apply or learn more about this Click Start programme.
Click Start by the University of East London, Be the Business and Forward Trust
This is a 6-week in-person course in London, where you can solve real technology challenges local SME businesses face and learn essential digital and employability skills. You will work towards recognised qualifications, including Google Digital Garage and Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS).
During the course and up to six after completing the programme, you will receive personal and professional development support to help you find and secure a role in the digital sector.
Click here to apply or learn more about this Click Start programme.
Click Start by Bath Spa University, Catch 22 and partners
Bath Spa University is working with Catch 22 and partners to deliver UX/UI and Web Development training in the South West.
This is a 12-week course where you will be taught through a combination of face-to-face and online teaching. During the programme, you’ll put theory into practice by working in groups on assignments, which will help you build a portfolio of work to show employers.
You’ll be supported by a personal employability coach throughout the course and for six months after the course.
You’ll also be given a one-year membership to the British Computer Society, free of charge, as part of this course.
Click here to apply or learn more about this Click Start programme.
Click Start by Durham University and TechUPWomen
TechUPWomen at Durham University works with women and non-binary people across the North and North East, offering flexible 6-week hybrid IT skills programmes and specialist career support.
Click Start will prepare you for the workplace and help you get into an entry-level role. It will also equip you with the skills you need for further education or training and aims to set you up for a level 3 or 4 apprenticeship. In addition, it will give you a taster of possible digital career paths to help you find your next steps.
Click here to apply or learn more about this Click Start programme.
Click Start by Abertay University and Salute My Job
Abertay University has partnered with Salute My Job to support the ex-armed forces community. This programme is only open to ex-servicemen and women and their partners.
Most courses will be run on IBM’s online ‘Skillsbuild’ platform. They are all free, and most are fully remote. The aim is to give you specialist skills and qualifications to open up new opportunities.
The courses you can choose include Security Operations Pathway, Cyber Security Consulting Pathway, Network Security Pathway, and Penetration Testing Pathway.
The Abertay University course is underway and is closed for applications.
Click here to learn more about this Click Start programme.
Now that you know what Click Start is, it’s time to get your free digital skills training and gain the skills you need to unlock new opportunities and access better paying jobs.
Jumpstart your career with Click Start and your first success is just a click away!
You can view our full list of Click Start courses here. You can also sign up for our newsletter to notify you when new Click Start courses launch.
